Motorists warned of new council powers that could see cars seized to ‘keep traffic moving’

The Berkshire council will have powers to tow away cars whose owners have accumulated three or more outstanding parking tickets.

The new measures will also see vehicles causing hazards or blocking roads being seized by the council.

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Drivers could have their vehicles seized if they are blocking access to roads

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Owners will face recovery fees to reclaim their vehicles, with unclaimed cars potentially being sold at auction.

The scheme, approved by the council’s cabinet on December 16, will require the appointment of a contractor before implementation.

Paul Kelly, the council’s lead member for housing, highways, planning and transport, revealed that more than 11,000 fines are currently written off annually.

The new scheme is projected to generate £165,000 per year in revenue for the council.

However, approximately £150,000 of this sum will be allocated to cover the operational costs of running the programme.

The new powers will target multiple categories of vehicles across the borough in a bid to clear streets.

Cars displaying fake or fraudulent disabled parking notices and Blue Badges will be subject to removal.

The council will also have the authority to tow abandoned vehicles, along with non-motorised vehicles such as trailers and caravans.

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The scheme aims to improve both traffic management and safety across the borough while enhancing the council’s ability to recover outstanding fines.