PEOPLE will be fined for abandoning vehicles in public places in Solihull under a new council policy.
Anyone found guilty of committing the offence can be fined up to £2,500.
Solihull Council says ensuring a vehicle is taxed and disposing of an unwanted vehicle is the owners’ responsibility.
Cabinet member for transport councillor Ted Richards said at a cabinet decision session: ““Abandoned vehicles can be a real eyesore and pose a hazard to members of the public.
“This new policy will help us to efficiently identify and remove untaxed, burnt-out and abandoned to vehicles in a safe, quick and consistent manner.
“Responsibility for enforcing the new policy will now sit with our excellent Parking and Enforcement team who will have the authority to prosecute suspected offenders and recover any costs in doing so.”
The policy involves the introduction of a new on-line reporting system, allowing enforcement action to be taken more quickly and efficiently, the council says.
Suspected abandoned vehicle can be reported by going to the council’s abandoned vehicle webpage.
The new policy clearly outlines timescales for processing enquires, serving notice, and the taking of enforcement action, including charges for the removal and storage of vehicles.
The policy also details how the council will be working closely with the DVLA to help identify those responsible for abandoning motor vehicles.
Council officers have direct access to the DVLA’s Vehicle Registration database, which they will be able to use if the owner has not been identified within seven days of a statutory notice being served.
Residents can contact Parking Enforcement services by email [email protected] or by phone on 0121 704 6111.
