District: Uttlesford

Key Worker Permit Update

Hand shown using NEPP's new website.

We have reviewed the NHS and Key Worker permit scheme that has been in place since March 2020.

In light of lock-down measures easing and with Government guidance encouraging employees to return to their workplaces where possible, we have made the decision to end the current permit scheme and replace it with a new scheme specifically for NHS Key Workers. This will align our scheme with the pre-existing Government permit, details of which can be found here.

All current permit holders have been contacted to provide further details on this decision and for how to apply for the new NHS specific scheme.

We would like to thank all Key Workers for their continued dedication to the national response to the pandemic and we are pleased that our temporary scheme has been so popular over what has been and continues to be, a difficult time.

Parking restrictions to address dangerous parking in Ardleigh

The North Essex Parking Partnership (NEPP) is currently installing a new Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) in Ardleigh, to address ongoing on-street parking issues in and around Old Ipswich Road.

It is hoped that the new measures will improve road safety in the area and prevent the dangerous obstruction of local roads including Ipswich Road, Old Ipswich Road and Turnpike Close caused by problematic parking

The TRO is the second permanent Red Route marked with double red lines in Tendring district and third in North Essex. Full details of the Order will be viewable on the county’s online TRO mapping system on the 15 June, when the restriction will begin to be enforced.

Red routes were first introduced in London more than 10 years ago and have tougher, zero-tolerance approach to traffic violations. The red route is being installed to stop drivers from parking dangerously on the road and verges, and prohibits stopping, loading, or unloading, and boarding or alighting from a vehicle.

The restriction has been requested by Tendring District Council. NEPP who manage on-street parking in the area, have actioned this TRO on their behalf.

Councillor Robert Mitchell, Deputy Cabinet Member for Highways at Essex County Council and Chairman of the North Essex Parking Partnership, said: “We understand that this may be a frustrating decision for those who find parking on the road convenient, but it’s important that we do all we can to protect our local communities and the residents of Ardleigh, whilst keeping the roads safe and clear for all road users.

Councillor Neil Stock OBE, Leader of Tendring District Council and ward councillor for Ardleigh, said: “We requested this scheme after feedback from the parish council and local residents who were concerned about safety.

“By keeping the road clear it allows improved visibility for drivers when making turns, which helps to keep everyone safe.”

The signs and red lining for the route were installed on the 18 May and will come into force on 15 June.