Hundreds fined for poor parking at Black Country railway stations

During eight weeks, 205 fines of £100 were dished out at Sandwell and Dudley, 199 at Rowley Regis and 135 at Stourbridge Junction.

The fines are reduced to £60 if paid within 14 days.

Centro decided to take action after complaints about cars obstructing other motorists and forcing pedestrians to walk in the road at stations.

Bosses say the scheme is proving successful as the number of fines given out is falling each week.

Councillor Roger Horton, lead member for rail and Midland Metro for Centro, said: "Although tickets are still being issued, and despite a small rise in weeks six and seven of the scheme, the overall steady reduction in numbers shows the message is getting through.

"We are glad the campaign is having the desired effect and making people think about parking more considerately."

Stephen Rhodes, Centro director of operations, said Stourbridge, Rowley Regis and Sandwell and Dudley seeing the highest numbers reflected that they are some of the busiest stations on the network.

He said demand for parking was being addressed by car park expansion work at these stations.

Work is underway to add 360 spaces to the existing 382 at Rowley Regis, 223 were being added to the 789 at Stourbridge Junction and 100 spaces were being added to the 220 at Kings Norton.

A re-design is also due to take place at Sandwell and Dudley station next year which would add to the current 374 spaces.

"Park and Ride is extremely popular which is why many car parks are full by 8am on weekdays," Mr Rhodes said.

"Motorists can play their part by giving themselves enough time to get a space then parking correctly, but they could also ask themselves if they really need to drive to the station at all.

"Many people live less than a mile from the station and could catch the bus, cycle or walk, something which would not only benefit their health but free up spaces for those who really do need to drive," he added.

Mr Rhodes said as well as the expansion projects there would be an increase in vehicle sharing bays at stations while cycle hubs and shelters would also continue to be rolled out to offer commuters an alternative to the car.