Labour plots new 'nationwide' UK driving law for 'first time in 50 years'

Labour is mulling over a new nationwide UK driving law - making a change after 50 YEARS. The new Labour Party government is considering a nationwide pavement parking ban for the first time in 50 years - and it could change "as soon as possible".

The potential move was raised at the latest Transport Committee meeting with Transport Secretary Louise Haigh suggesting the ban would bring the rest of the country in line with London rules, which have been in place since 1974.

Ms Haigh told the Transport Committee this week: "I completely recognise how important it is for accessibility. We’re considering what options we have available, because we want to make sure that any measures are not burdensome on local authorities and are done in the most effective way."

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Under current Highway Code rule 244, drivers "MUST NOT park partially or wholly on the pavement in London and should not do so elsewhere unless signs permit it." Despite what the Highway Code says, you could face a fine if you don’t park partly or wholly on the pavement in the capital city, if, for instance, the road would be too narrow for traffic to pass through otherwise.

That said, heavy good vehicles weighing more than 7.5 tonnes are prohibited from pavement parking at all times, unless it’s essential for loading. Councils have a free hand to impose fines on drivers for parking on pavements, providing they employ signs pointing out any restrictions. These often go hand in hand with other parking restrictions, including yellow and red lines, and Controlled Parking Zones (CPZ), which often restrict parking to permit holders, often local residents.

Chris Boardman, National Active Travel Commissioner, said in a statement: "Walkable high streets make for vibrant, happier and healthier communities, which is of course good for business."