Traffic wardens use app designed for finding parking spaces to catch out motorists

AN app which enables motorists to find parking spaces is also being used by wardens to find out when time is running out on a meter.

• Parking wardens are using a parking app to catch motorists who outstay their welcome on meters

• Metereye system is used by motorists to enable them to search for parking spaces

Manufactured by Perth-based Town and City Parking, the Metereye system transmits a signal from under the road when a parking space can become free which can be picked up by smartphones, iPads and other tablet devices.

However, the system is also being used by parking wardens in Edinburgh and Londons to help pinpoint meters that are about to run out and to hit motorists who fail to return in time with fines.

Professor Stephen Glaister, director of the RAC Foundation said: “This gives wardens the equivalent of eyes in the back of their heads.

“The all knowing equipment will be good for the parking industry and in car parks where space is at a premium. But some drivers might ask, where’s the sense of fairplay? Motorists will hope it won’t encourage attendants to lie in wait for people who have only slightly overstayed their welcome.”