Councils across England will gain new powers to tackle pavement parking after the Department for Transport confirmed sweeping changes to current rules that campaigners say endanger pedestrians and block disabled access.
The move extends London's existing pavement parking ban nationwide, giving local authorities the same enforcement powers currently only available to the capital's councils. Outside London, councils can presently only issue fines if vehicles cause clear obstructions or breach specific restrictions.
The changes follow years of campaigning by disability charities and safety groups, who argue pavement parking forces wheelchair users, parents with prams and elderly pedestrians into dangerous road situations. Many pavements also suffer costly damage from vehicle weight.
Motoring organisation the RAC welcomed the DfT's announcement but stressed the need for clear guidance to avoid penalising drivers where alternative parking simply doesn't exist. The group has previously warned against blanket bans without adequate parking alternatives for residents and businesses.
The reforms stem from a 2020 DfT consultation that found strong public backing for measures to keep footpaths clear and accessible. Responses highlighted widespread frustration with the current patchwork of rules that vary dramatically between areas.
Whilst the DfT has yet to reveal implementation timelines or the precise scope of new council powers, local authorities are expected to assess their road networks and parking provision ahead of the changes. The confirmation marks a significant victory for accessibility campaigners who have long argued that clear pavements are a basic right, not a privilege.