Manningham Housing Association (MHA) carried out a review of our Anti-Social Behaviour policy. Part of this review involved looking at car parking as an issue within the community.
Parking is a common issue in many communities. Whether it’s someone parking in your space or struggling to find a free spot, parking problems can be frustrating. MHA understands the challenges residents face, but there has been a change in our approach to this issue.
MHA will no longer be treating car parking issues as Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB). Here’s why this change has been made and what you can do if you have a parking problem.
Why Car Parking Issues Are No Longer Considered ASB
Anti-Social Behaviour, or ASB, involves actions that cause harm, fear, or serious disturbance, like threats, harassment, or loud noise at night.
Most parking issues are often the result of misunderstandings or inconveniences, rather than behaviour intended to disturb others.
By choosing not to classify parking problems as ASB, MHA can focus on issues that more directly impact residents’ peace and enjoyment of their homes. This approach allows us to dedicate resources to serious ASB concerns, such as behaviour that significantly disrupts or threatens the well-being of our community.
Legal vs. Illegal Parking: What Can Be Done?
It’s important to know the difference between legal and illegal parking when dealing with parking issues. Here’s what can (and can’t) be done in each case:
- Legal Parking: If a car is parked legally, MHA cannot take any action. This includes cases where someone is parked in a public space or on a street with no restrictions. Even if it’s inconvenient, nothing can be done if the parking is legal.
- Illegal Parking: Illegal parking includes actions like blocking driveways, parking on double yellow lines, or using spaces meant for disabled drivers without a permit. For issues with illegal parking:
- Contact the Local Council: Councils often have parking officers who can address illegal parking on public roads.
- Contact the Police: If someone is blocking your driveway or path and refuses to move, the police may be able to help. This is usually a last resort, but they can assist in cases where access is blocked.
Common Car Parking Issues and Helpful Advice
Here are some typical parking issues and tips for handling them:
- Blocked Driveways or Spaces: If someone’s car is parked directly in front of your driveway, try talking to them first. A calm, polite conversation can often solve the problem quickly.
- No Available Spaces: In areas with limited parking, it can be hard to find a spot. Look for nearby options, and remember that some spaces may be reserved for visitors or disabled persons.
- Unauthorised Use of Spaces: If someone parks in a space reserved for you, consider putting up a friendly reminder sign or letting visitors know where they can park.
Parking issues can be frustrating, but many problems can be solved through communication and understanding. Therefore, if you have tried all avenues listed above, MHA can try to assist you in resolving the issue through mediation.
Mediation is when a neutral person (from outside MHA) helps two sides talk about a problem to find a solution together. This means a mediator will sit down with neighbours to listen to both sides, help them understand each other, and work out a fair plan that everyone can agree on. This helps people solve the problem peacefully without the situation getting worse. Mediation would require involvement from all parties involved so that an agreement can be put in place for appropriate car parking.
If you’re experiencing anti-social behaviour, we’re here to help. The quickest way to let us know is to log into your MyMHA portal and send us a report. Tell us what’s been happening, when and where it took place, and how it’s affecting you. The more detail you share, the better we can respond.
If you’d rather speak to someone, you can call us, email us, or chat with your Neighbourhood Officer on 01274 771144 or via email at [email protected]. or complete an e-form here
And remember – if it’s an emergency or a crime is taking place, call 999 first, then let us know