DRIVERS who park illegally on the street face a 50 per cent hike in fines from tomorrow (Tues Oct 1).

The increase has been imposed by Bury Council, which is taking over enforcement of on-street parking and waiting restrictions from the police.

They will levy penalty charge notices (PCNs) of £60, up from £40, on vehicles parked incorrectly, not just in Bury town centre, but anywhere in the borough.

Councillor Stella Smith, executive member for the environment and transport, warned: "We will introduce a two-week period of grace during which PCNs will be issued but fines will not be imposed."

The council is employing 12 wardens under the scheme, which bosses say could bring in up to £100,000 a year after costs have been met. Any profits must be spent on traffic measures, not be put into the general pot. Fines are halved if paid within 14 days.

Offences include: parking on yellow lines when not allowed to; not putting enough money into a "pay and display" machine or staying longer than paid for; parking in a "permit only" space without displaying a permit.

Other offences include parking in a reserved space such as a disabled bay or taxi rank; at a bus stop, bus or cycle lane during prohibited hours; and opposite central double white lines or hatch markings. Parents take note when parking near schools!