MOTORISTS in Petersfield town centre will have to have their wits about them on Monday, September 8 when the new parking zones and 20 mph speed limit come into operation.
The restricted parking zone, which has no yellow lines, is being extended from Dragon Street into the High Street, The Square and St PeterÕs Road. There will be no waiting between 8 am and 6 pm Monday to Friday except in marked bays.
Signs will indicate the status of the marked bays, such as where waiting is permitted, the duration of the stay and which vehicles can use them.
Entry points to the restricted zone will be well signed.
Changes to the town centre parking arrangements include dedicated parking spaces for blue badge holders, taxis and delivery vehicles.
Blue badge holders will be able to park outside the marked bays provided they do not cause an obstruction.
Half hour parking bays for general use will be retained in the High Street and The Square.
All parking regulations will be enforced by Hampshire ConstabularyÕs new traffic warden, Patricia Gibbs.
The 20 mph speed limit will apply in the High Street, The Square, part of Chapel Street, St PeterÕs Road, Sheep Street, Hylton Road and The Spain.
The reduced limit also complements pedestrian courtesy crossings in the High Street. These provide a focal point for people to cross the road where there is good visibility and where footway build-outs reduce the width of the road - but they do not give pedestrians any right of way over vehicles.
Hampshire County Council has not put yellow lines in restricted parking zones to improve the street scene and to complement their recently completed highway and environmental work in the town centre.
HCCÕs environment spokesman Keith Estlin said: ÒThe new parking arrangements and speed limit will make for a more pedestrian-friendly environment, while still allowing access for vehicles. There will be plenty of signage to indicate what is permitted and where.Ó
The £600,000 town centre enhancement scheme will be officially opened September 23.