Police can still issue tickets in Mansfield

Notts Police has not renewed the contracts of Mansfield's nine wardens, but local authorities do not take over traffic enforcement until next year.

Police bosses say they have applied for money for community support officers, whose duties would include traffic.

District councillor Andre Camilleri said they were annoyed and accused police of "jumping the gun".

The police have decided to withdraw the service and left us to pick up the pieces Councillor Andre Camilleri, Mansfield District Council,

Supt Stuart Wright, the area police commander, said officers who have been reemployed as police community support officers are still able to issue tickets and enforce traffic regulations.

"I think the thing now is to make sure the new wardens are introduced as soon as possible," he said.

He added staff had been made aware of the changes and that drivers face "a rude awakening" if they park illegally.

Supt Wright said the force had applied for cash from the Home Office for community support officers to take on some of the work formerly carried out by wardens.

'Jumped the gun'

Mr Camilleri, portfolio holder for public protection at Mansfield District Council, said they planned to have talks with police.

"Obviously we are very annoyed they have jumped the gun but we have to work in partnership with these people," he said.

"We will have to take measures so people are safe and don't just park anywhere.

"Traffic wardens are the responsibility of the police and the police have decided to withdraw the service and left us to pick up the pieces."

People in the town said they have noticed problems caused since the wardens were withdrawn.

One resident said: " It's quite obvious there's no traffic wardens because there's lots of illegal parking.

"Some of it's quite dangerous. It's about time it was sorted out."