MOTORISTS in Chorley can look forward to a friendlier approach on the town's car parks as a new team starts its patrols.

The new start sees Chorley Council take control of parking enforcement on its own 13 pay and display car parks in the town centre after five years under the controversial Parkwise scheme.

The new civil enforcement officers will be acting as ambassadors for the town and the move will save council taxpayers around £30,000 per year.

Councillor Peter Goldsworthy, Leader of Chorley Council, said: "This marks a fresh start for parking enforcement on our car parks and I'm sure people will notice a difference straightaway.

"People told us that they weren't happy with the old system so we've taken control of the service so we can improve it.

"Parking enforcement is never likely to be popular but it is important that we get it right."

The new scheme is an innovative partnership between the authority, seven other district councils in Lancashire and private companies Chipside and Legion to oversee 'off-street' parking in the town. Lancashire County Council will continue to enforce regulations around 'on-street' parking, which includes everywhere other than the car parks.

A team of officers will be patrolling the borough's car parks in a new uniform clearly bearing the Chorley Council logo to make them instantly visible to motorists.

"I'm really pleased that the new scheme is underway and we'll continue to listen to comments from members of the public so we can make sure we keep improving," said Coun Goldsworthy.

"I would urge motorists to wipe the slate clean so we can make a fresh start and welcome a new approach to the way our car parks are monitored."

Information will be available on the Council's website www.chorley.gov.uk/parking with links on how to pay penalty notices and how to appeal.