West Dunbartonshire Council's drive to tackle inconsiderate parking has resulted in 1,991 penalty charge notices (PCNs) being issued to drivers in the five months after enforcement began.
Where and when the patrols are operating
Council officers say the scheme, introduced in November 2025, has seen a dedicated team of trained parking officers conducting patrols across the authority’s main towns. Patrols run seven days a week between 08:00 and 19:00 and concentrate on Clydebank, Dumbarton, Alexandria and Balloch, areas described by officials as those suffering the most disruption from parking problems.
Fines, income and appeals
The council estimates that if all PCNs issued from November to the end of March are paid, the income would be roughly £131,000. The authority says all proceeds from PCNs are ring-fenced for traffic and parking management.
| Period | PCNs issued | Estimated income if paid |
|---|---|---|
| Nov 2025 – Mar 2026 | 1,991 | ~£131,000 |
The standard PCN for a breach of the rules is set at £80, reducible to £40 if settled within 14 days. If unpaid after 56 days, the charge will increase to £120. Drivers retain the right to appeal if they believe there are mitigating circumstances.
Early signs of change — but issues remain
At a recent meeting of the council’s infrastructure, regeneration and economic development committee councillors were given the roads and neighbourhood service end-of-year delivery plan, which highlighted parking enforcement as a delivered action.
"Enforcement officers have identified some behavioural changes which represent an improvement in three areas: Alexandria, Clydebank and Balloch."
The comment was made by Gail Macfarlane, chief officer for roads and neighbourhood services. However, councillors were told that problems persist on Dumbarton High Street, where enforcement issues continue despite the new patrols.
Clydebank councillor William Rooney asked whether the enforcement had delivered improvements at priority sites such as schools and high streets. Officers acknowledged early positive indications in several towns but stressed the programme remains in its infancy.
What this means for residents
For motorists in West Dunbartonshire the message is straightforward: the council is actively enforcing parking rules in town centres and around schools, and patrols operate daily. Residents and visitors should note:
- Patrol hours are typically 08:00–19:00, seven days a week.
- Immediate payment within 14 days reduces the fine to £40; failure to pay can increase the charge to £120 after 56 days.
- Income from fines is earmarked for traffic and parking management rather than general council funds.
The council will face scrutiny from councillors and the public as enforcement continues, particularly in Dumbarton where difficulties persist. The coming months should indicate whether the early behavioural changes reported by officers lead to sustained improvements in parking and road safety across the area.
