New Solihull Council policy to tackle abandoned vehicles

Solihull Council has launched a new policy aimed at tackling those who abandon motor vehicles in a public place.

A SMBC spokesperson said: “Ensuring a vehicle is taxed or disposing of an unwanted vehicle is the owners’ responsibility.

“Under Solihull Council’s policy anyone found guilty of committing such an offence can be fined up to £2,500.

“The policy involves the introduction of a new on-line reporting system, allowing enforcement action to be taken more quickly and efficiently.

“Suspected abandoned vehicle can be reported by going to the Council’s abandoned vehicle webpage http://solihullcouncil.custhelp.com/app/smbc/dio/report_it/forms/transport_highways/abandoned_vehicle Alternatively they can contact Parking Enforcement services by email abandonedvehicles@solihull.gov.uk or by phone on ‪0121 704 6111‬.

“This new policy clearly outlines timescales for processing enquiries, serving notice, and the taking of enforcement action, including charges for the removal and storage of vehicles. The policy also details how the Council will be working closely with the DVLA to help identify those responsible for abandoning motor vehicles.

“Council officers have direct access to the DVLA’s Vehicle Registration database, which they will be able to use if the owner has not been identified within 7 days of a statutory notice being served.”

Councillor Ted Richards OBE, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Transport and Highways approved the new policy at Cabinet decision session on Thursday.

He said: “Abandoned vehicles can be a real eyesore and pose a hazard to members of the public. This new policy will help us to efficiently identify and remove untaxed, burnt-out and abandoned to vehicles in a safe, quick and consistent manner.

“Responsibility for enforcing the new policy will now sit with our excellent Parking and Enforcement team who will have the authority to prosecute suspected offenders and recover any costs in doing so.”

Read more: http://www.solihull.gov.uk/news/ArtMID/820/ArticleID/2327/New-Council-policy-to-tackle-abandoned-vehicles