Drivers snub 'controversial' parking law changes as more councils gain powers to fine motorists
Pavement parking is illegal in London and Scotland
GETTY
New data has found that only four-in-10 motorists are supportive of a nationwide pavement parking ban as more cities roll out updated council rules.
Just 39 per cent of motorists would be in favour of new pavement parking measures after Scotland changed its laws to begin charging drivers for stopping on pavements.
Consultations have been launched in the past to gauge the opinions of road users and motoring organisations to see if there is support for these measures.
Similarly, a 2018 blog post from Transport Secretary Louise Haigh indicated support for updated parking laws to protect pedestrians and save councils money from having to repair pavements.
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Drivers can be fined £100 for parking on the pavementGETTYShe stated: "Current laws on pavement parking are often costly for councils who are having to repair damaged pavements, but are extremely dangerous for vulnerable road users."
It is also illegal to park on the pavement in London and has been since 1974. Naturally, there are some exceptions indicated by traffic signs to allow for temporary stopping and deliveries.
Government documents state that parking on pavements and verges is permitted unless specifically prohibited by a local authority, which requires a formal Traffic Regulation Order (TRO).
The research also found that a third of motorists said they would support a blanket UK ban, but only in areas where wheelchair or pushchair users might be impacted.
Commenting on the data and the potential plans, Andy Syrett, managing director at YourParkingSpace, said the issue is dividing the nation and will continue to do so until it is addressed by the Government.
He continued, saying: "While there is some support for enforcing a blanket ban it is by no means overwhelming.
"Whatever the Government decides to do regarding pavement parking it is going to be controversial and not please everyone."
It comes as Glasgow looks to ban pavement parking later this month to ensure pedestrians can use the pavements safely and without being impeded by vehicles.
The Scottish Government rolled out measures in December 2023 to give local authorities the power to issue fines to motorists caught parking illegally.
Plans would have seen the new council laws rolled out in January across Glasgow, although the launch was impacted by IT issues, prompting the new rules to come into effect by the end of September.
Drivers can be slapped with a fine worth £100 if spotted by a parking warden for pavement parking, double parking and parking at dropped kerbs.
The council has also launched an interactive map on its website informing drivers of where the ban will be in place around the city.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
Louise Haigh previously indicated support for a ban on pavement parking
GETTYA report from Glasgow City Council stated: "The parking availability surveys and road assessments for all other wards will now be programmed to begin once the school holidays finish using voluntary internal resources and it is hoped the parking availability surveys and assessment proformas will be complete by the end of 2024.
"Thereafter, during the last quarter of this financial year, we will review and publish the results and put forward any associated recommendations."
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