Sick of pavement parkers? You’re not alone

Too many people across Redcar & Cleveland have told me the same thing. Pavements blocked by cars make everyday journeys harder, more stressful and sometimes downright unsafe.

That’s why I really welcome new powers from the government that will give local councils the ability to tackle problem pavement parking where it causes the most harm.

Blocked pavements aren’t a minor inconvenience. They can force parents with pushchairs, wheelchair users, blind or partially sighted people and older residents into the road, taking away independence and putting people at risk.

Under these changes from the Department for Transport, councils will be trusted to act where pavement parking is a real problem locally, while keeping flexibility where parking needs to work differently. Local leaders know their streets best, and this puts decisions closer to the communities affected.

As Lilian Greenwood MP has said, clear pavements are essential so people can move around safely and independently. I couldn’t agree more.

This is a practical step towards safer, more accessible streets for everyone, and another example of Labour delivering change that makes a real difference to daily life.

Have you had issues with pavement parking where you live? Let me know in the comments