In just seven months, 992 fines have been issued – compared with the 671 fines issued in the seven months prior to the patrol’s launch.

The revenue raised has also spiked, this time by 52 per cent, from $87,591 up to $133,147, netting council an extra $45,556.

Silva’s Newsagency owner Trevor Kingham is just one Howick Street business owner who supports the mobile licence plate recognition camera patrol’s introduction.

“You’ve only got to walk around main street and there’s definitely more spots now,” he said. 

“It’s giving people the opportunity to park and do their thing and move on.

“I think it’s great, and it’s a good move, it does free up parking, not just for our customers, but all customers.”

While in support of the mobile parking patrol, Bent Threads owner Ben Thomas said there are some draw-backs for stores located on Bathurst’s main streets.

“My concern would be as a business owner is that it forces people into shopping centres, rather than the main street,” he said.

Despite this, Mr Thomas said he has noticed an increase in the number of available parking spots near his William Street store.

“The parks turn over more quickly ... people are saying it’s easier to get a park, but it can be harder for out-of-towners,” he said.

Mr Thomas said people from outside Bathurst are often not aware of the mobile parking patrol and he’s heard of people receiving fines.

During the 2013/14 financial year 1330 parking fines were issued in the Bathurst council area worth $170,961,  down on 2012/13 when 1771 fines were issued at a cost to motorists of $208,713.