Pavement Parking

Dear constituent,

Thank you for contacting me about pavement parking.

I completely agree that vehicles parked on pavements are an issue, particularly for vulnerable pedestrians such as older people, families with pushchairs, wheelchair users and people with visual or mobility impairments.

As you note, last year the Government consulted on managing pavement parking. The summary of responses was expected to be published by February this year. Despite this, as late as July the Government said it was still considering the consultation findings, after receiving 15,000 responses.

I know that many people are awaiting the outcome of this consultation. I am aware that back in 2019, the Transport Committee said that it found it “profoundly regrettable” at the length of time the Government had taken to deal with this issue.

The charity Living Streets has highlighted that for many people, the current rules on pavement parking in England, outside of London, are confusing. In addition, at present, the existing law is applied inconsistently. I know this frustrates local residents, and causes misery to people with disabilities and visual impairments who find pavements blocked.

I am aware that there are different issues in different parts of England, and we need to start with the principle that decisions about people should be made closer to local communities. What we must look for is clarity for motorists and accessible pavements for all, while ensuring we do not substitute one bureaucratic burden on local councils with another.

I also believe it is hugely important that policies are produced in partnership with disabled people and have dignity and respect at their heart. Rules and regulations must be grounded in equality and ensure that disabled access is fully accounted for.

Thank you once again for contacting me about this issue.

Peter Dowd MP