Double-yellow dodgers

A large trailer parked on double yellow lines on Hamilton street

TRAILERS left on double yellow lines are becoming a real danger for drivers heading in and out of an Oldham business park, according to local businesses.

Several cab-less articulated lorry trailers are often parked on the restricted area of Hamilton Street but escape fines because, under highway legislation, a parking notice cannot be issued to an unaccompanied trailer.

One employee says he has reported the issue several times in the 18 months the parking has been a problem. The man said: “It is completely inconsiderate to other road users. They’re leaving the trailers in dangerous positions on the road — double yellow lines are there for a reason.

“I’ve seen drivers struggle to manoeuvre past them and there have been dozens of near-misses caused by the trailers obstructing drivers’ views of oncoming traffic. It’s a miracle no-one has been seriously injured or even killed.

Councillor Dave Hibbert, Cabinet member for housing, planning and transport, confirmed the council would be sending an officer to Hamilton Street to examine the issue.

He said: “We will attempt to identify who owns these trailers and if they can be traced they will be contacted and asked to remove them.

“We will also be contacting the North-West traffic commissioner to see if they can help out.”