DOUBLING Guernsey’s fixed-penalty parking fine has taken islanders aback. It went up to £30 yesterday, in line with a States decision of October last year.

But drivers at North Beach were shocked it had risen by so much and felt that a much smaller increase would have been enough.

The new law also brings Beau Sejour into the parking restrictions for the first time.

But controls will not be introduced there for two months in anticipation of more commuters using the centre’s car park after paid parking is introduced in 2008.

But how the new powers will be used while still accommodating centre users has yet to be announced.

Brian Richings, Home chief officer, explained how the increase had been decided.

‘It went to the States in October last year and they agreed then that it should go up. The matter then went to the Law Officers, came back and went straight to the States last month.

‘The Law Officers still have to deal with the rest of the items such as using a mobile in a vehicle which will also be able to be paid by a fixed- penalty ticket.’