The vehicle was taken off the road in August after councillor Jeff Whitton voiced concerns people were leaving a space and returning to it later and being fined for parking there the entire time.

A report to councillors said the system was sent to Melbourne for review, which found the technolog’s accuracy was sound, but there were some concerns regarding the clarity of the patrol photographs and the camera was replaced.

The report said the system had been successfully trialled by staff and fines were issued cautiously after comparing the photographs.

Councillors asked for residents to be given a week’s grace period once the car was back on the road where warnings would be issued, but no fines.

They also asked to give the vehicle livery similar to police highway patrol cars to ensure it was visible.