THE Lancashire-wide new ParkWise initiative was launched in Chorley this week.

ParkWise will see parking restrictions being enforced by councils rather than the police.

Motorists who are guilty of parking infringements can now expect to receive a penalty charge of up to £60, or £30 if paid within 14 days.

The county council is administering the scheme, but the decisions on how many parking attendants will be patrolling the towns and where they will focus their efforts will be taken by Chorley Borough Council.

County Councillor Jean Yates, Lancashire's cabinet member for highways and transportation, said: "ParkWise is all about improving road safety, cutting congestion and managing the highways more efficiently.

"Double yellow lines are there for a reason. It is usually to make the roads safer as parking in these areas can be a hazard for pedestrians, cyclists and other road users."