Brent Council confirmed parking enforcement will operate as before the coronavirus outbreak in response to the Prime Minister’s address to the nation on Sunday (May 10).

It said the increase in traffic on the borough’s roads as some people return to work and some businesses reopen means regular measures are back in place.

Cllr Krupa Sheth, responsible for the environment at Brent Council, said: “Since the start of this pandemic, we have taken a common-sense approach to parking enforcement.

“Thanks to residents parking considerately, many of our civil enforcement officers have been freed up to help with relief efforts, delivering food to those who need it most.

“However, as we see more traffic return to our streets, we need to keep roads moving smoothly and safely and ensure residents are able to park near to home when returning from work.

“Not only do we need to make sure vehicles, including emergency services, can get through, but we also need to support pedestrians to keep social distancing.”

She added parking for NHS staff and other key workers would continue to be free for “as long as necessary”.

The Government’s latest advice on managing the lockdown includes encouraging those who cannot work from home to return to work and increased access to sport, exercise and outdoor space.

Some shops – such as garden centres – are operating again and there is a phased approach in place to support the re-opening of other sectors.