IN the wake of a report earlier today criticising the issuing of parking tickets during a time of crisis, Thurrock Council has announced this afternoon that it will waive all parking fees and fines for NHS workers and other visiting staff carrying out vitally important work in relation to coronavirus.

A statement said: "From today, tickets will not be issued to NHS workers and visiting staff who are parked safely and not causing an obstruction at crossings and zig-zags or in restricted areas.

"The council will also quash any fines inadvertently issued to anyone who can show they work for the NHS. This approach supports the council's role in keeping key workers moving and the borough safe."

The council gave no details about how NHS drivers should identify their vehicles.

It added: "However, parking enforcement will continue and the council will still be enforcing parking restrictions to ensure that roads are not obstructed and that emergency vehicles including fire engines and ambulances can move safely around Thurrock."

Thurrock Council Leader, Cllr Rob Gledhill says: "Our NHS workers and visiting staff are doing a fantastic job in extremely trying conditions and it is only right that we do what we can to help them as they work to save lives and protect the nation.

"No parking fines will be issued to these vital staff, whilst they are carrying out their duties. during the coming weeks while the country is dealing with the serious issue of coronavirus.

"With more of us at home it is important that we pay attention to how we park and make sure we do not obstruct the road. Now more than ever we need to make sure that emergency vehicles have the access they need.

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"Our civil enforcement officers will be using their discretion and focus on inconsiderate parking rather than overstaying offences and we, as a council, are reviewing what more we can do to ensure our roads stay safe as well as supporting those who are helping others during this crisis."