AA calls for review of double yellows after nearly 35k Swindon drivers fined

The AA is calling for a review of double yellow lines to help free up parking spaces – after nearly 35,000 Swindon drivers were fined for stopping on them last year.

Within the borough, more drivers were caught for the offence than in the rest of Wiltshire.

The firm - which campaigns on behalf of drivers - says there are now seemingly fewer spaces and they believe some restrictions could be removed.

Jack Cousens, Head of Roads' Policy at The AA, said: "Drivers are telling us the real problem is finding safe and legal parking so we're asking local councils to try and help alleviate that problem by creating and investing in legal parking infrastructure.

"What we have seen from our research is that nearly two fifths of drivers admit to parking on double yellow lines at least once and around a quarter say they occasionally do so and one in ten admit that they are repeat offenders.

"There could be - for example - a review of the layout of the road where even one side of the street has double yellow lines and perhaps some on-street parking available on the other side, that kind of rethink and reset might help communities."

The AA’s research found that more than 1.6 million Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) were issued in 2024 under contravention code 01 – “Parked in a restricted street during prescribed hours”, including both single and double yellow line offences.

More than one third of drivers (37%) admitted to having parked on double yellows at least once, making parking on yellow lines one of the most common parking violations nationwide.

Out of 15,000 UK drivers surveyed, almost half (43%) said they parked on double yellow lines for loading or unloading.

Just under a third (31%) admitted they would do so for a quick stop, while others indicated they parked on double yellows because they have a Blue Badge (27%), because there is not enough legal parking (18%) and in emergencies (13%).

Lack of legal parking options

Only 13% of those who parked illegally reported receiving a fine, suggesting that enforcement is present but not universal.

When asked what would discourage them from parking illegally, more than half of respondents (52%) pointed to more legal parking options as the most effective deterrent.

Other suggestions included more visible enforcement (41%), higher fines (25%), better signage (18%) and public awareness campaigns (16%).

The survey also revealed demographic differences in attitudes.

Younger drivers (18–34) were less likely than older drivers to admit to parking on double yellow lines (NET: Yes = 29–35% vs 38%) while drivers aged 65 and over were most likely to admit to parking on double yellow lines (38%).

Additionally, 40% of men and 28% of women admitted to parking on double yellow lines at least once.

Mr Cousens added: “Double yellow lines are a clear indication that waiting or parking in that area is strictly prohibited, unless there is a legal reason allowing someone to stop there.

“However, what is clear is that drivers are asking for practical parking solutions. Expanding legal parking provisions and improving visibility of restrictions could significantly reduce violations and improve road safety. Enforcement alone isn’t enough - people need to know where they can park safely and legally.

“We also need to consider the diversity of driver needs. Delivery drivers, carers, and those with mobility challenges often face difficult choices. By improving access and signage, we can reduce the pressure that leads to rule-breaking and make streets safer for everyone.

“This is a call to action for councils and transport planners. The data shows that drivers are willing to follow the rules - but they need the tools to do so. A combination of infrastructure investment, education, and smart enforcement is the way forward.”

The AA is urging local councils and transport authorities to adopt a balanced strategy that includes:

• Investment in legal parking infrastructure
• Clear and consistent signage
• Review of yellow lines to ascertain if needed
• Targeted enforcement in high-risk areas
• Public education campaigns tailored to local needs

• parking offences