POLICE in Ipswich today urged visitors to the town to be aware of parking restrictions - especially on football match days.

POLICE in Ipswich today urged visitors to the town to be aware of parking restrictions - especially on football match days.

From November 22, Ipswich Borough Council will take over parking enforcement during Ipswich Town home games.

Parking restrictions have been enforced by Suffolk police during football matches for a number of years, with the force using cones to prevent the public from parking in and around Portman Road.

The council first took over parking enforcement in the borough of Ipswich in September 2005. Now, Suffolk Constabulary has agreed to hand over responsibility for enforcement on match days too.

Roads in around the football ground, where cones were previously put down by police on match days, will be replaced by drop down parking signs situated on lamp posts and walls displaying the parking restrictions.

The new measures come into effect on the day Ipswich welcome Derby County to Portman Road.

The fine for any breach of these parking restrictions will be the same as any other parking infringement in the town - £70 unless paid within the first 14 days which will reduce the fine to £35.

Pc Marc Norman, football intelligence officer for Suffolk Constabulary, said: “This is a very positive joint venture between Suffolk Constabulary and Ipswich Borough Council.

“On face value it may seem a big change to have the cones replaced by signs. However, as long as the public adhere to the signs there will be no problems.

“Ultimately, the change will allow the time spent by officers distributing and collecting cones and dealing with obstructions to be better spent concentrating on the safety of fans, providing a more visible presence and ensuring all those attending the game or visiting the town have an enjoyable time.”

Ian Booth, council road safety manager, added: “We are pleased to be working with Suffolk Constabulary on improving enforcement on match days, allowing police officers to deal with the fans attending the game to maximise enjoyment for all present.”