Drivers Demand Government Action on Pavement Parking Rules

A recent survey indicates that a significant majority of drivers in England are urging the government to take action regarding pavement parking. The findings show that approximately 83% of respondents support the introduction of new regulations to tackle this ongoing issue. While 42% advocate for a complete ban on pavement parking, 41% favor granting local councils enhanced powers to restrict parking on specific roads.

Currently, pavement parking is prohibited only in London and Scotland, leaving most of England without clear regulations. In 2020, the Conservative government explored proposals to enable councils across England to implement their own bans, but no formal policy changes were enacted. The Labour government has indicated that it will reveal “the next steps” on this matter “as soon as possible.”

The survey, conducted by research firm Online95 with 1,709 drivers in June and July, highlights the pressing nature of the issue. Notably, 66% of participants reported witnessing vehicles parked on pavements in their local areas. Alarmingly, 44% said they frequently see pedestrians forced to walk into the road due to obstructive parking.

Regulatory hurdles complicate the enforcement of pavement parking bans outside London. Councils must navigate a lengthy and costly process involving separate Traffic Regulation Orders for each street. Rod Dennis, senior policy officer at the RAC, characterized pavement parking as “a serious problem in some communities that needs tackling.” He emphasized that “no pavement user should be forced into walking or wheeling into the road because of someone parking inconsiderately.”

Dennis added that while the majority of drivers are in favor of addressing the issue, there is no consensus on the best approach. “Any future government policy needs to strike the right balance between stamping out pavement parking that poses a danger to pedestrians and ensuring that streets are not inadvertently blocked by parked vehicles,” he stated.

Rachel Toms, connected neighbourhoods director at the walking, wheeling, and cycling charity Sustrans, echoed these concerns. She asserted that the government should legislate to afford councils in England the same powers as those in Scotland and London to enforce pavement parking restrictions. “This issue is having a huge impact on some of the most vulnerable people in society and it’s time for action to address the problem,” Toms remarked.

A spokesperson for the Department for Transport acknowledged the concerns raised by the survey. “Our priority is to make it as easy and as accessible as possible for everyone to get around, and we recognise the problems pavement parking can cause for people across the country. The government continues to review the issue of pavement parking nationwide and will update in due course.”

As discussions surrounding pavement parking regulations progress, the voices of drivers and pedestrians alike highlight the urgency for action. The findings of this survey underscore a growing demand for clearer rules and enforcement mechanisms to ensure safe and accessible pathways for all.