Parking controversy resurfaces at Bothwell sheltered housing complex

Feb 25 2010 by Alastair McNeill, Hamilton Advertiser

A ROW over parking in a Bothwell cul-de-sac flared up again last week when ‘no parking’ signs, aimed at deterring inconsiderate drivers re-appeared there.

A controversial DIY ‘no parking’ sign first appeared at Waverley Court early in 2008, but was later removed by the council.

But last week unauthorised ‘no parking’ signs were again spotted at the sheltered housing complex.

‘Advisory’ no parking signs will now be installed by the council.

Waverley Court residents had been unhappy at “thoughtless” non-residents using the area as a car park while attending events at the nearby community hall.

Motorists, however, point out that there is nowhere to park nearby.

They have also said cars had been vandalised in 2008 while parked in the cul-de-sac.

One Waverley Court resident was reported to the police about the matter.

A disgruntled Waverley Court resident said this week: “You cannot move for cars parked here when the community hall is being used.

“Something needs to be done.”

Another resident commented: “People here are fed up. Motorists continue to leave their cars here, and residents cannot get parked outside their own homes.

“Many people here have disabilities and some are in wheelchairs. It’s important that they get access.”

The resident said she did not know who had put up the latest signs, but added that she was so unhappy about the situation, she would “put one up if I had one.”

A Bothwell resident told the Advertiser he had noticed the latest DIY ‘No Parking’ signs at Waverley Court on Sunday, February 14.

He commented: “They’re not quite as professional as the last time, but they are still unauthorised.

“People park there because there are no alternatives nearby.

“The hall doesn’t have a car park, and you cannot park on Fallside Road.”

A South Lanarkshire Council spokesperson said: “South Lanarkshire has previously removed unauthorised signage.

“It has now been confirmed that the area in question is within the sole ownership of housing and technical resources.

“Signage will now be erected indicating that parking is for residents and visitors only.

“This signage will be advisory only and will not be enforceable in terms of any parking restrictions or regulations.

“Unfortunately, the signs currently erected have incorrect wording and will be replaced with the correct signage.”