ILLEGALLY-parked lorries are being targeted as part of a new clampdown in Thurrock.

The trial scheme, under which lorries will be clamped if they are caught parked illegally, started on Monday and will run for two weeks.

The problem has been particularly bad in the Towers Road area of Little Thurrock, where residents and ward councillors have fought for tougher measures.

Thurrock councillor responsible for public protection, Ben Maney, said: “The council has implemented overnight parking bans, conducted late-night visits to move lorries on, and distributed flyers to drivers detailing the locations of Thurrock’s lorry parks.

“Despite these actions, we still have the problem of HGVs being illegally parked in a number of areas in the borough.

“This pilot scheme is being implemented to tackle this ongoing problem, which is blighting the lives of our residents.

“We hope financial penalties will deter drivers from breaking the law once and for all.”