Councils to get new powers to fine drivers who park on pavements

The Department for Transport will give councils new powers to restrict pavement parking across wider areas and to fine drivers who cause 'unnecessary obstruction', with guidance due later in the year.

Councils will receive new legal powers from the Department for Transport to tackle pavement parking and related disruption. Previously, authorities often had to seek restrictions on a street-by-street basis, a process criticised as slow. The DfT says councils will retain flexibility to decide where enforcement is appropriate. Officials are also looking at wider legislation on national road rules that could apply locally. Key details: - The DfT confirmed new legal powers will allow local authorities to restrict pavement parking across much wider areas than before. - Councils will be able to issue fines to drivers who cause "unnecessary obstruction" by parking on the pavement, with that assessment left to enforcement officers. - Under earlier rules, restrictions typically required applications on a street-by-street basis. - The department said the new powers will be delivered "in due course" and would not require additional traffic signage. - The DfT plans to set out guidance later in the year on how councils should use the powers in a proportionate and locally appropriate way. Summary: The change is presented as a step to keep pavements clear for people who rely on them, including parents with pushchairs and people with sight loss, according to the transport minister. Officials are reviewing broader road law changes and the department will publish guidance later in the year; the exact timetable for implementation is described as "in due course."