COUNCIL chiefs are warning motorists to park legally and safely as they prepare to take responsibility for the issue across north Durham.

Durham County Council will take over responsibility for on-street parking and public car parks in areas including Consett, Chester-le-Street, Seaham and Easington on Monday, November 7, from Durham Police.

From that date, NSL, the council’s enforcement contractor which was formerly known as NCP, will have powers to issue penalty charge notices.

The council took responsibility for parking in Durham City in November 2008.

Councillor Neil Foster, the council’s cabinet member for regeneration and economic development, said: "Motorists who park illegally create an unsafe environment or cause a nuisance and obstruct other people going about their daily business.

"The vast majority of residents and visitors park within the rules, keeping clear of yellow lines and ensuring they have valid pay-and-display tickets. These people will not notice any difference.

"We introduced a similar scheme in Durham City in 2008 and since that time there has been a significant drop in the number of incidents of people parking illegally.

"By taking over this role we also ensure that any income raised from penalty notices is reinvested in our county and does not go into a central fund."

Anyone wanting more information on the changes can call the council’s parking services team on 0191-3835551.