My View: Putting an End to Pavement Parking

Thank you to everyone who contacted me about pavement parking. I sincerely share your concerns about the impact that pavement parking can have on pedestrians, and have been contacted frequently by constituents who are really suffering with the way people do not respect parking rules. I recognise that vehicles parked on pavements can cause serious problems, particularly for people with mobility or sight impairments, wheelchair users, and parents with prams or pushchairs. Clear pavements are essential to ensure people can move around safely and independently.

I strongly support the steps the that are being taken to address this issue, including the provisions made in the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act. In January 2026, our Government published its response to the consultation on pavement parking, setting out a clear plan for action. Rather than introducing a one-size-fits-all national ban, a devolved approach is being taken, giving local authorities the powers they need to tackle problem parking in their areas.

As a first step, local authorities have been given the power to issue Penalty Charge Notices to vehicles that unnecessarily obstruct the pavement. This allows councils to take action quickly where pavement parking creates hazards.

In addition, our Government has committed to introducing further legislation to enable local transport authorities to prohibit pavement parking across their whole area on an opt-in basis. Importantly, this approach allows for exemptions where needed, for example on narrow streets where some pavement parking may be necessary to maintain traffic flow. This ensures that any measures are both effective and practical for local communities.

This approach reflects our Government’s wider commitment to devolution. Local leaders are best placed to understand the needs of their communities and to decide where restrictions are appropriate. At the same time, the overarching objective remains clear: to make pavements safer, more accessible and more inclusive for everyone.

These measures also sit alongside broader action to improve road safety and support active travel. I support the investment that is being made in walking and cycling infrastructure and taking forward a new Road Safety Strategy to make roads safer for all users.

I recognise the strength of feeling on this issue and the importance of empowering councils to act. I am 100% supportive of measures that give local authorities the tools they need to keep pavements clear and ensure that everyone can travel safely.