Southend-on-Sea City Council has introduced a new measure to prevent motorists from evading parking fines by driving away before a penalty can be issued.
From today (Monday, 3 March 2025), the council has begun issuing ‘Drive Away’ Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs), also known as Regulation 10 PCNs, which will be sent by post when a vehicle leaves before a Civil Enforcement Officer (CEO) can place the ticket on the vehicle.
How the ‘Drive Away’ PCN Works
🚗 If a CEO identifies a vehicle parked illegally:
- They will begin issuing a PCN and take photographs.
- If the driver leaves before the ticket is affixed or handed over, the CEO records the vehicle details.
- The registered keeper will receive the PCN by post.
Why This Change?
✅ Ensuring Fair and Consistent Enforcement
✅ Improving Road Safety, Especially Near Schools
✅ Reducing Congestion and Keeping Traffic Flowing
✅ Making Parking Spaces More Accessible
Council Statement
Cllr Daniel Cowan, Leader of the Council, said:
“School safety is a top priority, and we’re tackling dangerous parking to keep clear routes for pedestrians and make school areas safer by introducing ‘Drive Away’ Penalty Charge Notices.”
“This initiative stops those who put children at risk from avoiding fines and helps keep our streets accessible and safe. This is about creating a better environment for all residents and visitors to enjoy.”