A popular Isle of Wight carnival faced unexpected disruption on Wednesday as several vehicles were issued penalty charges.

Parking officers were out in force across Ventnor, including on Dudley Road, where numerous vehicles received Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) for violating temporary parking restrictions.

The original route of the carnival would have seen the parade travel down Madeira Road and St Catherines Street, but due to the poorly parked vehicles, organisers were forced to make last-minute changes. 

It held the carnival procession up for a while, mid flow.

Parking Charges being issued by officers at Ventnor CarnivalParking Charges being issued by officers at Ventnor Carnival (Image: IWCP)

An IW Council spokesperson commented on the situation, highlighting the importance of following temporary traffic restrictions during carnival events.

The spokesperson said: “The Island is home to many amazing carnivals and parades. 
“In order for them to travel through our towns safely and allow good views for the public including young children, parking restrictions are sometimes required.”

These restrictions are advertised in advance through a Temporary Regulation Order in the County Press newspaper – published every Friday.

Event organisers also took steps to inform Ventnor residents by placing leaflets on vehicles and setting out No Parking cones along restricted areas. 

Parking notice issued by Ventnor CarnivalParking notice issued by Ventnor Carnival (Image: Contributed)

Despite these efforts, one vehicle’s failure to comply caused significant disruption to the carnival, while other vehicles had to be navigated around.

The council spokesperson added: “As the parking restrictions are well advertised and indicated at the time and on location, anyone seeking to ignore and potentially impede the progress of the carnival procession or people’s enjoyment by restricting views is liable to receive a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN). 

“If anyone believes a PCN should not have been issued, they have a right to appeal by following the procedure on the notice.”

The incident has sparked frustration among event attendees, many of whom had lined Madeira Road and St Catherines Street, only for the carnival to change route.