Motorists parking illegally to be targeted with fines, towing in new congestion-busting measures

The push to bust traffic congestion in greater Hobart is stepping up with tougher measures to be imposed on drivers who illegally park their cars.

Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Michael Ferguson says motorists parking illegally in clearways in Macquarie Street will be towed from next week. Picture: NIKKI DAVIS-JONES

MOTORISTS are being warned to expect to be fined and have their vehicles towed if they park in clearway zones on Macquarie St from Monday.

The tough new measures are part of the Government’s package to bust congestion in greater Hobart.

The zero tolerance approach to parking in clearways will see vehicles towed and owners fined $380.

Infrastructure and Transport Minister Michael Ferguson said the Government meant business.

“If people are making the wrong decision to be in the clearways, when they come back their car won’t be there,” he said.

“If people are caught, they will be towed and booked with a $380 fine. We’ll be taking those vehicles out of the traffic flow so the lanes can be opened up.”

TOW TRUCK UNVEILED TO BUST CONGESTION WOES

Mr Ferguson said a grace period of more than a month has applied, which has included advertising the changes and notifying local businesses and hotels.

“Through removing illegally parked vehicles on Macquarie Street, we are ensuring this important thoroughfare is able to operate at optimal capacity,” he said.

Another incident response tow truck will be rolled out next week to expand towing capabilities on the Brooker, Domain, Tasman and East Derwent highways.

As part of the measures, the Government also introduced a new fleet of tow trucks at either end of the Tasman Bridge to respond to traffic incidents.