Drivers could soon be banned from parking in one key seaside location after councillors look to issue strict new laws.
Motorists may soon be stopped from leaving their vehicles on beach slipways in Jersey with new legislation in the pipeline.
St. Helier Deputy Max Andrews has put forward a proposal to widen parking restrictions after a series of incidents.
Jersey Fire and Rescue have reported being blocked in by vehicles parked on slipways which they feel could delay response times to emergencies.
Mr Andrews has called for a consultation to be run with emergency services with a report to be finalised by December 2024.
Andrews wrote in a proposal outlining the plans: “Due to recent events unfolding whereby slipways were blocked during rescue emergencies, I have felt compelled to investigate this matter further.
“This is something that cannot continue, and therefore, I hope the States Assembly support me to ensure the Minister engages with stakeholders to potentially introduce changes to the schedule of the Policing of Beaches (Jersey) Regulations 1959 pending the outcome of a consultation, to be completed no later than December 2024.”
Earlier this week, Jersey Fire and Rescue were called amid fears a vehicle parked on the slipway could be washed away.
They used the opportunity to issue a desperate plea for motorists not to stop on the key access route.
They posted on Facebook: “At approximately 7:30pm on Wednesday evening, a crew from White Watch were called to retrieve a car parked on Green Street Slip which was in danger of being damaged by the rising tide.
“Slipways have parking restrictions to ensure sufficient access for emergency vehicles is maintained. Please help us by following these regulations.”
Last month, the team made it clear that any blocked slipway “can make it difficult” for inshore lifeboats to launch.
They also warned that cars left on the slipway may prevent rescue vehicles from properly manoeuvring.
Station Commander Channing has even stressed any delays could prove costly in life-or-death situations.
He explained: “This behaviour is putting people at risk. If we need to rescue people found unconscious in the sea, every second counts.
“If the emergency services cannot get to the casualty in good time, this life-threatening situation can become fatal.”