We have a responsibility to keep the roads and footpaths safe to use.
Illegally parked vehicles cost us thousands of pounds a year due to damaged paving, damaged grass verges. They also cause serious problems for blind, disabled and older people.
What action do we take against pavement parking?
If there are waiting restrictions (yellow lines) on the highway adjacent to the pavement then a Penalty Charge Notice would be issued, as a vehicle parked in this manner is in contravention of the Traffic Order. Waiting restrictions cover the highway from the centre of the highway to back of the footpath.
If there are no waiting restrictions on the highway adjacent to the pavement, then we have no powers to take action and this should be taken up with the Police as it constitutes obstruction.
Why is pavement parking a problem?
Pavements are constructed and provided for pedestrian use.
Vehicles parked on pavements are:
- a hazard to pedestrians and cause an obstruction which may result in them having to step off the pavement onto the highway, therefore, putting themselves in danger;
- a hazard by restricting the width of the pavement making it difficult for someone with a pushchair or wheelchair to pass safely - again this person may have to step into the highway to avoid the obstruction; and
- a hazard due to the damage caused by driving on and off the pavement, for example, broken flags.
