Drivers in parts of England will soon have to comply with new rules around pavement parking. Councils have been given the green light to apply for powers to ban drivers from parking on footpaths, with motorists failing to follow the rules facing fines.
New Measures to Improve Pedestrian Safety
Movement is finally happening on the issue following years of safety campaigning. The rules would mean pavements on certain streets having to be left completely free. This follows years of concerns about pedestrians being blocked as they walk, particularly vulnerable groups like the elderly, disabled people, and parents with young children.
Postcode Lottery for Drivers
New measures are set to come into force later this year, but it is unlikely to happen everywhere at the same time. In fact, motorists could face a postcode lottery based on where they are in the country. Some councils, including Birmingham, have made it clear they will be applying for the powers, but others may not. There is unlikely to be a blanket ban impacting all streets.
Targeted Enforcement on Busy Streets
Instead, council bosses are likely to target city centre streets, busy roads, and other hotspot areas where there are known issues with blocking pavements. Quiet residential streets are unlikely to be targeted unless there are specific concerns. Enforcement is likely to work in a similar way to double yellow lines, with traffic wardens patrolling streets. Rule-breakers could be hit with fines up to £70, based on existing council parking penalty charge notices.
Council Leader Welcomes New Powers
Councillor Majid Mahmood, Birmingham's roads boss, said: "These powers will help us make our pavements safer, more accessible and more inclusive for everyone who relies on them. Inconsiderate and illegal pavement parking creates barriers to walking and cycling and for those who need mobility aids, and can contribute to road collisions."
