Airport parking clampdown to begin

New restrictions aimed at tackling "illegal, inconsiderate and dangerous" parking near an airport are set to come into force.

From Monday, vehicles will be prohibited from parking on the B6918 and Callerton Lane near Newcastle International Airport.

Anyone breaching the measures could face a penalty charge notice, Newcastle City Council said.

It follows concerns people were parking on the road and residential streets to avoid paying for a space at the airport while they drop off or pick people up.

The local authority has designated the area a red route and marked roads with double red lines.

Pamela Holmes, the council's assistant director for transport, said residents had raised issues with people stopping outside their homes "often during the night and early hours".

She added: "Restrictions were in place with double yellow lines, but they were often disregarded which is why, following consultation, we need tougher measures to reduce the risk of accidents caused by illegal, inconsiderate and dangerous parking.

"A number of other airports currently have these schemes in place to tackle such issues."

The airport car park closest to the terminal costs £4 for 10 minutes, £7 for 30 minutes and £11 for an hour.

However, an alternative facility further away offers 15 minutes without charge and there is a free waiting area for cars and taxis at Callerton Parkway.

The council said it "would strongly encourage people to use them, rather than risk a fine".

Cameras and wardens will enforce the restrictions.

Drivers breaching them will receive a penalty charge notice for £70, or £35 if paid within 21 days.

A total of 14 objections were lodged when the scheme was proposed with critics saying the airport should "take more responsibility by providing free parking and extending taxi provisions".

A spokesperson for the airport said in August the measures were "fully supported".

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