A significant number of local authorities in England are actively facilitating pavement parking, according to recent BBC research. The investigation found that over half of the councils surveyed are designating areas for cars to park on pavements, either through specific markings or signage. This practice has drawn strong criticism from disability charities, who contend it creates substantial barriers and safety hazards for pedestrians, particularly those using wheelchairs or with limited sight.
The Local Government Association acknowledged that pavement parking is a frequent source of public complaints, stating that councils must balance the diverse needs of all road users. However, disability advocates highlight the severe impact on accessibility. Hana Kitson, a 39-year-old wheelchair user, described how parked cars on her street, including near Birmingham's Fordhouse Lane, prevent her from attending community classes and activities. She explained that pavements are often narrowed to the point where pushchairs and wheelchairs cannot pass, severely limiting her ability to participate in daily life, a stark contrast to her active career as an army doctor before an accident.
Concerns are not limited to wheelchair users. Rob Moulds, 57, who is visually impaired and uses a cane, likened navigating obstructed pavements to a "pinball machine," constantly encountering obstacles. The National Federation of the Blind has called for a comprehensive ban on pavement parking, also pointing out the long-term damage to pavement infrastructure caused by vehicles. While acknowledging the challenges of limited parking, Mr. Moulds questioned why pedestrians should bear the brunt of the problem.
Some residents, like Clive Hawkins on Fordhouse Lane, argue that pavement parking is a necessity due to narrow roads and a lack of alternative parking spaces, particularly given the frequent passage of ambulances and buses. Councillor Harris Khaliq, Birmingham City Council's cabinet member for city operations and digital, recognised the difficulties posed by pavement parking but confirmed its allowance in certain city locations. He added that the council welcomes new government powers to manage pavements and is awaiting further guidance on their implementation.
The Department for Transport has indicated it is working to grant local authorities more robust powers to tackle dangerous and inconsiderate pavement parking. However, the BBC's Freedom of Information request revealed that out of 164 responding councils, 84 permitted pavement parking, with only five of those having plans to remove the designated spaces. This situation comes as the number of licensed vehicles in the UK reached a record 42.3 million in December 2025, with cars also increasing in width, exacerbating pressure on existing road infrastructure.