Safety checks on Bristol Airport car park shuttles
15.04.08
Vehicles taking passengers to Bristol Airport from nearby car parks were targeted by police and safety inspectors. More than 20 courtesy vehicles were examined to find out if they were safe and their drivers were properly licensed and insured during an enforcement clampdown.
A North Somerset Council spokesman said safety was paramount and it would take action against those flouting the rules. One vehicle was prohibited from use due to defects found by police, and some of the drivers stopped were found to have incorrect insurance, with one having an invalid driving licence, the spokesman added.
The council takes a fairly aggressive line on off airport car parks, which can be an eyesore and adversely affect local residents with increased traffic, including at unsociable hours. It targets unlicensed off airport car parks for a speedy closure and fines, and will not allow planning permission for more off airport parking - which is usually cheaper than on airport car parks - despite the airport's growth. It looks like it is now targeting those car parks with permission too.
Due to the serious nature of the contraventions found in the operation, the council and police are now considering prosecution of the companies and individuals concerned. It might have been fairer to carry out checks on all courtesy vehicles - including the on airport ones - rather than just those being used by non Bristol Airport car park operators though.
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