POLICE have pointed the finger at local people for the chaotic parking in Peebles town centre.

On a daily basis motorists are flouting rules, by parking on double yellow lines or causing an obstruction.

Inspector Tony Hodges told the Tweeddale Area Forum on Wednesday: “Parking is the bane of my life and it’s an issue that is generated by locals and local businesses.

“Inconsiderate parking is usually by them - and some times it can be very bad. We’ll always attend instances of dangerous parking. My brief is to speak to drivers and move them on.

“We don’t see parking violation as a crime but we do need people to be more considerate and I don’t think a heavy-handed approach is appropriate.

John Montgomery, the manager of Peebles Citizens’ Advice Bureau, told the forum that he was upset to find cars parked over double yellow lines and motorists without blue badges using disabled bays.

“Some people just seem to ignore the rules and we need to put a stop to it,” he said.

He added that parking rules in Peebles were confusing with many unaware that you could park for free but that you must still display a ticket.

Councillor Catriona Bhatia said: “I can sympathise with this. I was parked in Greenside recently and saw some poor tourist come back to his car and find a ticket. Local people know that you have to display a ticket even though it’s free, but it’s not clear to tourists that you need to do this.”