Once they were many a parking motorist’s nightmare but these days parking attendants – also formerly known as traffic wardens – have a new name to go with their broadened responsibilities and – now we hear – a new look too.
These Civil Enforcement Officers – who keep the streets of Bath and North East Somerset safe and offer advice to the public – have been given a new-look uniform, with an option to wear shorts in hot weather.
The Council says the 35 CEO’s they employ, act as ambassadors for the Authority and are often the first point of contact for visitors and residents. Spending less than 10% of their time enforcing parking restrictions, the officers are frequently called upon to help with directions to local landmarks or parking queries.
The new uniform reflects their approachability, as well as incorporating a polo shirt and optional shorts to allow them to remain cool and comfortable in the heat.
Councillor Neil Butters, cabinet member for Transport Services, said: “Our Civil Enforcement Officers provide a crucial service in making the streets of Bath and North East Somerset safer for everyone. They offer the public excellent support with parking, directions and information about the local area and they always work outside in the fresh air.
It is good to see them enjoy a versatile, modern uniform that reflects their professionalism, whilst allowing them to be comfortable helping people on our streets in warm weather.”
The CEOs operate across Bath and North East Somerset seven days a week, including early mornings and late evenings, walking up to 10 miles a day in all weathers. They play a key role in ensuring our roads are safe and help to reduce congestion by enforcing parking restrictions on public roads, as well as in our car parks.
They also have a wider role covering minor repairs to pay and display machines, reporting environmental crime such as littering or dog fouling and reporting abandoned vehicles.
More information on the role of a CEO can be found at https://www.bathnes.gov.uk/services/jobs/recruitment-spotlight/civil-enforcement-officers
