Drivers warned they could face fines for parking that blocks Waverley bus route
Drivers parking near a busy junction in Waverley have been warned they could face fines after buses were forced to divert because vehicles were blocking the route.
Developer Harworth said it will begin parking enforcement within the next two weeks around Stephenson Way, near Olive Lane and Lescar Road, after repeated problems with vehicles preventing buses from turning safely.
The developer said it had previously considered installing bollards or cones but found drivers simply parked alongside them, which pushed vehicles further into the road and created a bigger obstruction.
New signs have also been installed on Stephenson Way warning drivers not to park on access roads, footpaths or grassed areas.
The notices state that motorists who fail to comply could face a £100 parking charge.
A spokesperson for First Bus said the issue has led to almost daily diversions for its 95 service.
“Currently, we are diverting our buses almost daily due to parked vehicles that prevent them from turning safely, and now our buses are diverting via Highfield Spring in both directions.
“The affected section is not visible from the diversion route, which also means we have to follow the diversions for longer periods until we’re confident that our buses can safely pass.”
Rother Vale councillor Jamie Baggaley said residents had also raised concerns about parking in the area.
He said cars were being left across dropped kerbs, on junctions and partly on pavements despite nearby parking provision.
“Residents have had enough,” he said.
“We’re seeing messed up verges, people unable to cross the road now that the long overdue dropped kerbs are in place, pavements restricted with half-parked cars, and a guessing game as to what route the bus will take.
“This junction has always been an issue and it’s certainly a pinch point given the residential, commercial and education settings all in close proximity.”
The roads around Olive Lane are currently unadopted, meaning responsibility for them remains with the developer.
Harworth said double yellow lines had previously been installed in the area but were removed during resurfacing works needed to bring the road up to adoptable standards.
The company said it is now working with the council to apply for a Traffic Regulation Order that would allow new waiting restrictions and double yellow lines to be introduced.
An additional overflow car park with around 70 spaces and six disabled bays has recently opened at the end of Stephenson Way.
Harworth added the car park offers 2.5 hours of free parking, with further signage planned to encourage visitors to use it.
The developer said information about the new overflow car park and parking arrangements had been shared with residents through newsletters, community channels and the We Are Waverley website and social media.
Simon Moss, service director for planning, regeneration and transport at Rotherham Council, said the authority recognised residents’ concerns.
“The developer has already agreed in principle to install waiting restrictions in the area to help prevent unsafe or obstructive parking.
“While the developer prepares the road markings, the council will begin the process needed for a formal Traffic Regulation Order. If this is approved, the restrictions can then be fully introduced once the roads are adopted.”
The council said it would continue to work with the developer and transport partners to ensure safe and reliable access through Waverley as the development progresses.