A new pavement parking rule is set to be introduced across England with a major update imminent. The Department for Transport has confirmed that an announcement will be made shortly after weeks of speculation. The new law will grant English councils the same powers as their Scottish counterparts to ban pavement parking, says the Birmingham Mail.
Liberal Democrats MP Helen Maguire said:
“Every day people are forced into the road, into moving traffic, because the pavement is blocked by a vehicle. Parents with prams, wheelchair users and people with sight loss must choose between risking the road or turning back. These are not minor inconveniences but moments of danger, frustration and exclusion.
“Pavements are meant to be for the safe, independent movement of older people, disabled people, families with young children, and everyone who simply wants to walk without obstruction. When pavements are blocked people are not just delayed; they are put in harm’s way, their dignity diminished and their right to use public space denied.
“The law is clear in London and Scotland: parking on the pavement is prohibited unless the council has judged that it is safe and necessary on that street.
Labour Party cabinet member and former Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood said:
“We have carefully considered the potential impacts of pavement parking to ensure that our approach aligns with the Government’s wider missions, which are focused on growth, health, safer streets, and breaking down barriers to opportunity.
“Tackling pavement parking can contribute to safer streets by reducing risks for pedestrians who would be forced into the road. It can enable more people to walk – the perfect antidote to inactivity.
“By ensuring that disabled people and families can move freely and safely, it can break down barriers to opportunity, which, alongside high levels of active travel, can potentially drive growth benefits. Our work is helping us shape a policy that is not only effective but equitable. As a result of all that work, I expect to make an announcement very soon.”
(Pic: Fife Council)
