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CCTV will no longer be permitted as a sole way of enforcing parking regulations, as the government unveils the Deregulation Bill.

The government sees the proposed changes in the law, which will also prevent camera 'spy cars' from being used to prosecute motorists, as a “a victory for drivers and shoppers”.

Instead of using CCTV and spy cars, a warden must physically attach a penalty notice to the offender's car.

However, on "critical routes" automatic enforcement will still take place – for example, near schools, on bus lanes and on red routes.

It is hoped that the bill, which includes other measures to make city and town centre parking more attractive, will help to stem the flow of traffic to retail parks outside urban areas, where parking is invariably free.

The bill will allow for a trialling of a 25 per cent discount on the maximum fine for drivers who lose a parking ticket tribunal appeal.

Under the new legislation, locals will also be able to review parking policies in their area. Also under the new legislation, those who cannot pay for a ticket due to an inoperable ticket machine will also not be fined – as long as no other payment method is available.

Eric Pickles, Communities Secretary, said councils used CCTV and spy cars to generate extra income: “Today the Government is taking urgently needed action to ban this clear abuse of CCTV, which should be used to catch criminals, and not as a cash cow.”

Parking bodies and voices in local government have been quick to question the new legislation.

Are you one of our breakdown repair insurance customers with a view on this new bill? Will it make you more likely to venture into your town's centre?