It is certainly wrong to use a private car park for longer than you’ve paid; but it’s infuriating to have your car clamped unnecessarily.  That’s the message I’ve been receiving in my post-bag over the last several years from residents and visitors to Windsor.

 

So I am delighted that the Government has announced that it will be ban vehicle clamping on private land.  It will come into force in the new Freedom Bill in November and means anyone who clamps a vehicle or tows it away on private land will face tough penalties.

 

The ban is a major step forward in the fight against rogue clampers and for motorists, not only in the Royal Borough, but around the country.

 

We are fortunate to live in a beautiful and historical part of the country, which attracts millions of visitors each year.  So it is disheartening to hear from victims of over-zealous clampers, who have been left with a bad impression of Windsor; many of whom say they would think twice before visiting in future.

 

I know that the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead are aware of the issue and have worked hard to contain the problem.  With my encouragement and support, they have constantly lobbied Government for a change in regulations and last year announced their pledge to fight for clamping to be outlawed.  They’re a dynamic Council who have helped to achieve an excellent result for local residents and the nation.

 

Over-zealous and rogue clamping has gone on for too long and I am thrilled that the Coalition Government has had the courage to make the change.

 

I now look forward to people spending more time in Windsor out of choice, rather than an inability to leave!