March 2018
I have been lobbied about pavement parking previously at surgeries and appreciate the depth of concern about this issue. I know that vehicles parked on pavements can cause particular problems for people with visual impairments, as well for those in wheelchairs or pushchairs.
I can assure you that improving access for disabled people is a key priority for this Government. During 2016 a roundtable meeting took place as part of the Department for Transport's (DfT) work with a range of stakeholders to examine the legal and financial implications of an alternative pavement parking regime, as well as the likely impacts on local authorities. A key issue identified was the process for putting in place Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) for the enforcement of pavement parking and the DfT is considering how best to improve the TRO-making process.
More broadly, the Government has already taken steps to make it easier for councils to tackle pavement parking. While there is an historic ban on pavement parking throughout London, elsewhere any local authority that has taken up civil enforcement powers may introduce a ban on pavement parking where it sees fit. In 2011, Ministers gave all councils authorisation to use a sign banning parking on the pavement, removing the need to ask Whitehall first for permission. I am aware that Ministers have written to councils on several occasions to encourage them to use their available powers. The DfT has also published guidance for traffic authorities which highlights the difficulties that pavement parking can cause for pedestrians and details ways that it can be prevented.
I understand the Government are set to make an announcement regarding pavement parking later in the spring and I, like you, will look forward to hearing it.
