Charging police officers for parking a 'kick in the teeth' says federation

Douglas Council reportedly installs pay machine in overflow parking area

On-duty police officers could be charged to park outside Police Headquarters in Douglas.

That’s according to the Isle of Man Police Federation which has described the introduction of a parking machine as a ‘bit of a kick in the teeth’.

Douglas Council has installed the machine in an overflow parking area used by officers – it’s believed it will cost £1 a day.

Richard Hewitt, the federation chair, says it's unnecessary:

In a statement issued to Manx Radio, Douglas Council says: 'Douglas Borough Council has a range of parking charges in Noble’s Park, including a disc zone for park users, a nightly fee of £10 for motorhome users and a nominal £1 charge for up to 12 hours’ parking.'

'Out of courtesy, we began discussions with the IoM Constabulary some time ago and also made an offer for them to purchase parking permits for staff. There have been further conversations over the last few days and we are awaiting their response.

'The area in question does not affect the free parking either outside Police Headquarters or on the opposite side of the road.'