Parking manoeuvre done by millions of drivers every day 'to be banned forever'

City traffic with many cars parked in line on street side.
-Credit:Getty


Drivers are being warned they may have to adapt to huge changes on the roads over the coming months and years. Motorists may soon be banned from parking on pavements across the UK under measures being considered by the Government.

Pavement parking is already banned in London and those laws could be about to be extended across the country. Campaigners are calling for the change to improve safety for pedestrians.

It would mean drivers would no longer be able to mount their vehicles onto pavements. There remain questions over how such a scheme could be fully policed amid increased pressure on local authorities to monitor streets and enforce the rules.

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There are concerns in particular around the safety of disabled pedestrians and parents with young children and prams who may not be able to get past cars parked on pavements, or find their path blocked. But an outright ban could cause problems on tight and narow streets. Ministers have said they are reviewing options, with an update expected later this year.

Motoring experts at Yell said: "Parking on the pavement might seem harmless, especially when roads are narrow or spaces are tight, but it’s a habit that could soon become illegal across the UK. While London already enforces strict rules against it under Rule 244 of the Highway Code, elsewhere in the country, it’s currently discouraged but not outright banned – though that could be about to change.

"The Department for Transport is considering rolling out London’s parking rules across the rest of the UK – meaning drivers who park on the pavement could soon face a £70 fine no matter where they are. Beyond potential rule changes, there’s also the issue of accessibility.

"Parking on pavements can create serious challenges for pedestrians, particularly wheelchair users, those with visual impairments, and parents with prams or pushchairs, forcing them onto the road and into danger."