YOUR SWINDON YOUR VERDICT: TRAFFIC wardens and their replacement parking attendants have never been popular in the eye of the public.

Many are seen mercilessly giving out parking tickets to unsuspecting drivers in towns and cities across the country.

Now it seems apparent that that feeling is being reflected here in Swindon too.

When we asked whether parking had improved in Swindon as a result of the introduction of parking attendants, the result from Swindonians was an overwhelming 'no'.

Around 57 per cent, over half said that the parking situation in the town had not improved while only 37 per cent of you said that it had.

In September 2003 Swindon Council took over responsibility for parking from the police, which saw a big increase in the number of traffic wardens patrolling the streets.

Coun Jemima Milton said: "This result is very surprising and does not reflect what our staff are hearing from local people. We are aware that neighbouring local authorities are looking at plans to introduce decriminalised parking after seeing what a success it has been in Swindon.

"The emergency services have also told us that there has been a notable improvement in access."

Coun Milton added that before decriminalisation, parking was approaching an effective, 'free for all' but now huge strides had been made in tackling problem areas.

She said: "We have seen parking problem areas eliminated, flouting of parking regulations reduced, the problem of vehicles parking in residents parking zones without permits tackled and disabled parking bays kept clear for those entitled to use them.

"These are just some examples of the undoubted benefits we have seen since the council assumed control of parking enforcement."