Police are stepping up patrols at Macclesfield Forest after a deluge of Christmas walkers caused ‘mayhem’ by parking inconsiderately.
PC Lesley Long described ‘traffic chaos’ at the forest when people headed to the beauty spot for a festive walk, but failed to use the specified bays.
The warning comes less than a month after the council banned parking on roads around the forest following complaints from residents.
PC Lesley Long said: “There was traffic chaos at Macclesfield Forest yesterday with an influx of people wanting to enjoy the forest.
“Unfortunately this caused mayhem with the number of cars visiting and with the inconsiderate parking.
“There are bays for people to park in and a pay and display car park at Trentabank so there should be sufficient places for people to park legally without causing any obstructions.
“The traffic was so bad that people were struggling to get in and out of the forest and this was a major concern for the emergency services.
“Traffic enforcement will be in place and any vehicle causing an obstruction will be towed away.
“Please park sensibly and enjoy the forest.”
Cheshire East Council banned parking on roads around the forest and began enforcing the restrictions from November 30 after residents complained about obstructions.
The issue was raised by a Macclesfield Forest working group, which includes Sutton Parish Council, Peak Park Rangers and other partners.
They fear that emergency vehicles will not be able to get through to people who may be in trouble.
Cheshire East banned parking on Standing Stone Road, Trentabank Road, Field Road, and sections of Clarke Lane, Red Lane, Forest Side and Oven Lane.
