Sections 63 to 77 of the Road Traffic Act 1991 (HMSO, 1991, IRRD 841895) decriminalise most on-street parking offences within Special Parking Areas (SPAs) or Permitted Parking Areas (PPAs). Following approval by the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions, traffic authorities may introduce Special Parking Areas in which they can enforce most on-street parking regulations through the issue of Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) or the authorisation of wheel clamping or vehicle removal. Any excess income generated may be used by the traffic authority to improve parking within the area, undertake minor road improvements or enhance public transport services. Hampshire County Council received authorisation to introduce the first English provincial SPA in Winchester District in May 1996. This SPA covered the whole administrative district, which included smaller settlements such as New Alresford, Bishop's Waltham and Wickham, as well as the City of Winchester. This report presents the effects of that action. (A)
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