Motorists are being warned not to flout traffic rules in the pedestrianised town centre as police clampdown on drivers who ignore road signs.

A number of fixed penalty notices have been issued after reports of vehicles driving down King Street in Whitehaven, which is a marked pedestrian zone with no traffic allowed except for loading on certain evenings.

Brian O’Kane, who represents Whitehaven Central North on Whitehaven Town Council has previously called for enforcement action to be taken against drivers who ignore the rules.

He said: “It’s about time. I’m pleased that the police have decided now to act and prevent people going down an area that is significantly dangerous and can cause significant problems in the town centre.

“I hope that applies to Post Office vans accessing the Post Office on King Street.”

Graham Roberts, who represents the Harras ward on Whitehaven Town Council, said: “The police are right to take action. This is one of the things that has held the town back.

“This is why Workington succeed as a shopping centre. They have a precinct where you are free from cars. This has been a bone of contention.

“This town is awash with cars. You can’t move for them.”

A spokesperson for Copeland police said: “We have received reports of vehicles driving down King Street, Whitehaven, again contravening the traffic signs and vehicles parked on the pavements and causing an obstruction.

“Positive action has been taken and will continue to be taken with offending vehicles being issued with fixed penalty notices for the offence of unnecessary obstruction and contravening traffic signs.

“Please keep this in mind when parking your vehicle in the town centre.

“If you are a blue badge holder and are exempt from some restriction, you still need to park appropriately and not obstruct the highway, including pavements.”

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