The demand for parking permits in Inverness increased dramatically in the first two months of Highland Council’s new parking clampdown.
Permit applications and handouts rose from about 80 per month to an average of 210 per month in October and November.
The sharp increase follows the launch of the scheme in late October which was preceded by a three week warning period.
And the north’s parking enforcement officers have dished out at least 1,110 parking tickets – 1,030 in Inverness and 81 in Fort William – since the scheme went live, according to the latest available figures.
Offenders will be liable to pay £30 if they stump up within 14 days, or £60 if they wait for more than a fortnight.
Last night a Highland Council spokeswoman said: “People are getting used to having to check on their parking habits. It’s good news that the message is getting through and we encourage people to make sure that they get valid permits before Christmas, as we will be closed from Christmas Eve over new year.
“People need to make sure they apply before the holidays as they may expire over the holidays. We would advise people to keep checking the dates on their permits.”
Residential, visitor and business parking permits for specific, parking restricted streets in Inverness can be obtained using the online form available on the council’s website.
The form enables customers to apply anytime, anywhere and on any device and to upload scanned, photographed and electronic evidence to support their application.
The local authority also acknowledged that, for some customers, digital services may be challenging, and stated that Inverness Service Point staff are available to provide help for customers to complete their permit application online.
Facilities are also available at local libraries to access online services.
For more information, or to apply for a parking permit, please go to www.highland.gov.uk/parking
