A Newport husband and wife have spoken of their frustration after receiving a parking fine just moments after a special bay for disabled motorists was painted outside their home, following a campaign lasting more than two years.

Graham Tufft, who is 66 and lives on East Usk Road in Newport, had been requesting a disabled parking space in front of his house for over two years and three months. Tradespeople arrived on Tuesday to paint the markings, but almost immediately after the work was finished, a traffic official issued a penalty charge notice to his vehicle.

His wife explained that the paint was still wet when she went outside to put up their disabled permit, only to discover the fine had already been handed out.

She said they had waited an extraordinarily long time for this space, and then this happened just minutes after the workers finished. She added that traffic officers are rarely seen on their street, so it seemed as though one had been hiding nearby waiting. She described it as extremely suspicious.

The couple said they were shocked and upset by the incident, particularly given how long they had looked forward to having the bay installed.

Mr Tufft, who has a disability registration, sought the parking space to make it safer and easier for him to get in and out of his home.

The matter has now sparked fresh questions about how the council’s parking enforcement team and road maintenance department coordinate with each other.

Other residents on East Usk Road expressed solidarity with the couple, describing the penalty as unfair and harsh given the situation.

Mr and Mrs Tufft plan to challenge the penalty charge notice and have contacted Newport City Council to raise their concerns.

Newport City Council has been invited to comment.