A blanket ban on pavement parking could be introduced across the country in a matter of months. The government is currently reviewing proposals for the nationwide change.
The prospective ban could form part of the government’s new transport strategy, which is set to be unveiled later in the year.
The move follows lobbying from road safety champions, who have long been pushing for the ban. The groups argue that pavement parking creates difficulties for disabled pedestrians and those with prams, particularly on congested streets where walkers are forced onto the road, creating a safety risk.
Pavement parking has already been prohibited in London for over 50 years. However, some critics say enforcing a country-wide ban would overburden local councils.
Transport minister Lilian Greenwood has already expressed support for the ban. When asked about the potential change, Greenwood said: “This Government is committed to publishing a formal response to the consultation and announcing the next steps for pavement parking as soon as possible. We are currently considering the consultation outcome, including the views of many local authorities, and the options for tackling this nuisance.”
Housing minister Matthew Pennycook was also asked about the issue earlier in the month, and acknowledged the problem pavement parking creates for some pedestrians. Pennycook confirmed that the government intends to publish a formal response to the consultation later in the year, including its next steps for the policy.
Read more of the latest road safety news on the Anglo Liners blog. Alternatively, click here for a free road marking quote.