Leuven to test automated scan cars for parking enforcement

The city of Leuven is set to begin a one-month trial in October to determine if automated scan cars can replace manual parking wardens. Mobility Alderman Dirk Vansina stated that the shift is being considered because it is becoming increasingly difficult to recruit and retain staff for the physically demanding role of walking through the city in all weather conditions.

Opposition members, specifically from the PVDA party, have expressed concerns that the technology is a move to increase revenue. Party leader Anton Nilis suggested that motorists are being treated as a 'money machine' for the city administration, citing a significant increase in fines in Antwerp as a cautionary example. The city administration has denied these claims, emphasizing that parking regulations and rates will remain unchanged.