A public information campaign is getting underway in Scotland to make people aware that they could soon be fined for parking on the pavement.
The Transport (Scotland) Act 2019 bans pavement parking, double parking and parking at dropped kerbs, with certain exemptions designated by local authorities – for example to ensure safe access for emergency vehicles.
From 11 December 2023, local authorities can begin enforcing the law. This means drivers could be fined £100 for these parking behaviours; reduced to £50 if paid within 14 days.
The new campaign includes radio, outdoor and social media advertising, highlighting the dangers pavement parking poses to pavement users, forcing them to take unnecessary risks by moving around the car and onto the road.
Fiona Hyslop, Scotland’s minister for transport, said: “The message here is clear: pavement parking is unsafe, unfair and illegal, and you could be fined up to £100 for it.
“Local authorities can begin to issue fines from 11 December, so this campaign is really important to make sure everyone in Scotland is aware that enforcement is coming.
“We’re highlighting the danger that illegal pavement parking poses to pavement users, and in particular those with mobility issues or visual impairments, or parents pushing prams and buggies.
“Scotland is the first of the four nations to make pavement parking illegal nationwide. This change in legislation is a step towards developing communities that are better able to support active travel, building on the work that is already underway to reduce emissions and helping us meet our world-leading climate change targets.”
Mike Harrison has been a wheelchair user following a cycling collision 17 years ago.
He said: “Vehicles on the pavement can be just a nuisance and they can be a severe obstacle. It increases my journey time, I’m often in danger of scratching my hands on a wall, or vegetation sticking out makes it difficult to get past.
“Once you’re on the road, of course, you’re more vulnerable, especially if the traffic is coming up behind me.
“The new enforcement will make it clear to people what is required and will make journeys safer and more convenient.”
Whereas at one time it was the norm to park conventionally on the c/way against the kerb, it has now become the norm – usually for no reason – to park with two wheels on the footway. When you do see a vehicle parked conventionally at the kerb, it actually now looks out of place….or even wrong! People copy what others do, without thinking ‘is this right?’.
Hugh Jones, Cheshire
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