Douglas Borough Council has strengthened its enforcement powers against car owners who overstay or abandon their vehicles in its car parks.

The local authority has updated its car park order, failure to comply with which will attract a £100 excess parking charge, reduced to £50 if paid within 14 days.

Council Leader Councillor David Christian MBE JP explained: ‘The order was last reviewed in 2003 so there was a clear and urgent need to update it and for it extend to Council-owned car parks off the public highway such as those serving our housing estates, Douglas golf course, Pulrose and Anagh stores and more out-of-the way sites such as Queen Street and Ridgeway Street Lane.

‘The police and residents have become increasingly concerned over growing incidences of abandoned vehicles; they are not only unsightly and represent a potential hazard but also deprive others of parking spaces.

‘It is to combat this irresponsible and antisocial behaviour that the Council has updated and amended its parking regulations. In support of these measures the Council has also made improvements to a number of sites, including resurfacing, marking out parking spaces and erecting signage alerting vehicle owners to the excess parking charges.

‘The Council is committed to investing in its housing stock, maintaining existing and building new homes, as well as raising environmental standards and improving the quality of life across the Borough. I am sure residents will therefore welcome the steps we have taken and be pleased to learn that the Council is determined to take robust action against offenders.’