The Department for Transport (DfT) is expected to decide soon whether it will introduce a ban on pavement parking across England, with the RAC reporting that the majority of drivers want the Government to take action. Pavement parking is already banned in London and Edinburgh and pressure is growing for the rest of the country to follow suit.
Currently, councils in England can only ban pavement parking through individual Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs), a process criticised for being slow and expensive. In a written answer to Parliament, Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood confirmed that the Government is reviewing responses to a consultation originally launched in 2020 and is considering the best way forward. She said the department will announce the next steps and publish its formal response soon.
The Local Government Association (LGA), which represents councils in England and Wales, has repeatedly called for a nationwide ban. It argues the move would help protect vulnerable pedestrians, encourage walking and cycling, and remove bureaucratic barriers for councils. Independent research commissioned by the LGA highlighted the barriers caused by pavement parking, including lack of space for wheelchair users and parents with pushchairs, as well as safety concerns for those forced to step into the road.
What this means for you
If a ban is introduced in England, drivers could face fines similar to those already in place in London and Scotland. This would mean that even putting two wheels on the kerb in a residential street could land you with a penalty notice.
For motorists living in areas with narrow roads, the change could prove especially significant. The RAC notes that some drivers feel forced to mount pavements to leave enough space for other cars to pass. A new law would require councils to balance accessibility for pedestrians with the practicalities of residential parking.
The vast majority of drivers – 83% according to the RAC – support government action, but they are split on how it should be delivered. Around 42% back a full ban, while 41% favour giving councils more power to restrict the practice where necessary.
Editor’s view: An improvement or would things get worse?
This issue feels long overdue. Pavement parking is not just an inconvenience but a daily hazard for parents with buggies, wheelchair users and anyone who relies on a clear, safe path. For too long, the law in England has left enforcement down to piecemeal local action that simply does not work.
If the Government does move towards a national ban, it has to keep the rules simple and consistent. Fines should be fair and proportionate, and councils must be able to make exemptions where streets would otherwise become impassable. Getting this balance right is critical if motorists are to buy into the changes – and most importantly, it will affect residential parking on narrow streets, so there will need to be alternative spaces for people in order to be fair. If not, things will get worse for urban dwellers.
From my point of view, Parkers readers are clear – they want practical, affordable motoring without needless red tape. A ban that genuinely improves safety while giving councils the tools to be pragmatic is the right step. The quicker the Government delivers on its promises, the better.
Keith Adams – Editor, Parkers
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