A HAMPSHIRE MP has echoed calls by firefighters for drivers to obey the Highway Code as more motorists are spotted blocking the Romsey Fire Station.

In what has become a hot topic in the market town, and across the county, MP Caroline Nokes has pledged to get the County Council involved in a bid to have prominent warning signs placed near the station.

As previously reported, following months of campaigns, articles and incidents, firefighters in Romsey made a further plea for motorists to heed the warnings, or face hindering potential life-threatening situation.

Crews say many drivers in the town constantly disregard signs and warnings when travelling along Alma Road, and even the repainting of the junction earlier this year has done nothing to resolve the issue.

They add the main problem comes during rush hour, as drivers exit the town via Winchester Road and Southampton Road.

Battling traffic lights at Alma Road’s junction to The Hundred, motorists queue through the prohibited zone – which is an offence under the Highway Code.

After visiting the station earlier this week, Ms Nokes said she caught a number of motorists blocking the station.

“In the short time I was at Romsey Fire Station on Tuesday I saw a number of drivers stop on the yellow box,” she added.

“Whilst I know, of course, drivers are not maliciously blocking the route of the appliances, it is vital that they think ahead and accurately judge the distances involved.

“I have contacted Hampshire County Council to request the placement of some prominent warning and also Hampshire Constabulary to see what resources can be put in to issuing tickets to those who are dangerously blocking this vital, life-saving service.

“In the meantime, I would again plead with drivers who regularly use Alma Road – particularly during rush hour – to put themselves in the position of those who may be affected by these unnecessary delays to firefighters reaching incidents.”

As reported last year, Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service is currently trying to tackle the problem with the I Need My Space campaign.

Launched in November, the campaign came after fire chiefs voiced their concern at the number of incidents in which motorists hinder emergency service vehicles with erratic driving and poor parking.