Weston Parade to Get New Parking Restrictions as Council Responds to Caravan Concerns

Southampton City Council will introduce new parking restrictions along Weston Parade after a number of caravans were found using the waterfront road as long-term accommodation.

The measures, which come into force on Thursday 20 November, will establish “no waiting at any time” rules along both the north-east and south-west sides of Weston Parade, stretching from near Weston Shore Car Park towards the city boundary.

The council said vehicles had been parked on the road for extended periods, with some being used as living spaces — a situation the authority said created sanitary and safety concerns.

Following a public consultation, new time-limited parking bays will also be installed. These will operate with a six-hour limit between 6:00am and 10:00pm, with no return within four hours, and no overnight waiting. In addition, overnight parking between midnight and 4:00am will be banned at Weston Shore car parks.

Councillor Christie Lambert, cabinet member for transport, said:
“Weston Parade has been experiencing ongoing issues with vehicles being stored on the road for long periods of time and obstructing traffic. There have also been structures like caravans which were being used for accommodation and therefore also raised sanitary and safety issues.”

She added:
“The Traffic Regulation Order consultation saw a great majority of respondents in support of the restrictions. Bringing forward the restrictions here and in the nearby car parks allows the council to better deal with these issues and remove obstructions for drivers, while also supporting the vast number of people that enjoy walking, wheeling and cycling along Weston Parade.”