Gweru in parking penalties climb down

Gweru (New Ziana) – The Gweru City Council has reduced clamping fees following a public outcry by local motorists.

The local authority had increased clamping fees from ZWL80, which is about USD1 to USD30, a move that did not go down well with residents and motorists.

Council public relations officer Vimbai Chingwaramusee confirmed that the city had been forced to reduce the fees.

“There was public outcry so we felt it was prudent to listen to our valued residents,” she said.

Chingwaramusee said they had reduced the clamping fees for light vehicles from USD30 to USD5 or its equivalent as per prevailing bank rate on the day.

Heavy trucks will be required to pay USD15 or its equivalent, while buses would be charged USD20 or its equivalent if they are clamped.

In a notice to motorists, the local authority said; “Our clamping fees has been reviewed from USD30 to USD5 or as per prevailing rate for light vehicles, USD 10 or as per prevailing bank rate for heavy vehicles and USD20 or as per prevailing bank rate for buses and trucks.”

Council had on 9 October this year increased parking fees from $30 to USD1 or equivalent.

Meanwhile, the Gweru City Council has urged residents, clients and stakeholders to pay their bills.

The local authority said it is currently owed $214 382 945 by residents and businesses.

“This is weighing down service delivery. In a bid to improve service delivery we are going to descend heavily on all those who owe us,” the local authority said in a statement.

New Ziana