Motorists in a UK borough could soon face a significant clampdown on pavement parking, as local authorities seek stronger powers to tackle the problem.
Council Calls for Police Action
This week, Bracknell Forest Council’s cabinet member for planning, transport and countryside, Cllr Guy Gillbe, wrote an open letter to the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC). The letter requests that Thames Valley Police take decisive action to address the issue of vehicles parking fully or partially on pavements.
The council regularly receives complaints from residents but has historically had limited power to enforce against this behaviour. Local authorities can only intervene where specific restrictions, like yellow lines, are already in place. In all other instances, pavement parking is considered a police matter.
Impact on Pedestrian Safety
Parking on the pavement creates serious difficulties and hazards for people trying to walk safely. This is particularly true for vulnerable pedestrians, including the elderly, people using mobility aids such as wheelchairs or scooters, and parents with pushchairs.
Cllr Gillbe stated: “We take action where we can, but we can only do so much under the decriminalised parking powers available to councils.” He emphasised that while the council understands parking can be tight in some areas, this does not make pavement parking acceptable.
Seeking Clarity and Consequences
The push for action aims to provide clarity and establish real consequences for drivers who break the rules. Cllr Gillbe explained that most complaints involve isolated incidents or specific vehicles, making it an issue ideally suited for police intervention at a local level.
“It’s not a universal issue but it is something that impacts people’s daily life and their ability to move around their own neighbourhoods freely and safely,” he said. The council's appeal highlights how this problem disproportionately affects those with limited mobility and families with young children, underscoring the need for a solution to ensure everyone can navigate their community safely.
