Urgent call to address pavement parking danger
In communities nationwide, the act of pavement parking poses a serious threat to safety. It significantly impacts those who are blind or partially sighted (BPS), parents with pushchairs, young children, wheelchair users, and those with mobility challenges.
Despite a resounding response of 15,000 voices during the 2020 Department for Transport consultation, no action has been taken, leaving this ongoing issue unaddressed.
What is the solution?
Thomas Pocklington Trust is now at the forefront, urgently advocating for a nationwide ban on pavement parking. This proposed legislation seeks to empower both the police and local council parking wardens for effective enforcement, with careful consideration given to exceptions for specific streets. This approach ensures a balance between safety and the overall functionality of our roads.
Sight Loss Councils (SLC) are supporting this campaign by encouraging SLC members and local sight loss charities across the country to endorse the campaign by sending letters to their local MPs, to have this addressed at Westminster.
SLCs also want to ensure that pavement parking is firmly on the agenda for local authorities by highlighting how dangerous it is for BPS people to navigate around a vehicle that prevents them from using the pavement and forces them into the road. We would also like you to get involved.
Bhavini, navigating around a vehicle parked on the pavement
Bhavini Makwana, a manager at Thomas Pocklington Trust, said:
“It is really terrifying each time I am presented with dangerous parking, putting my life at risk.
“As a blind person, I am urging the government to act with urgency. Each time I leave my house to go to work, shopping or do the school run, I face danger. I am forced into the road due to vehicles parked on pavements.”
In this short video we see Bhavini have to navigate around a vehicle parked on the pavement, forcing her into the road.
Beyond legislation, we are urging the government to launch an awareness campaign. This initiative aims to spotlight the real and often severe impacts of pavement parking on public safety.
The call to action extends to you. Your voice matters, and we encourage you to write to your Members of Parliament (MPs) urging swift action on the pavement parking issue. Waiting until after a General Election is not an option.
You can also join us in contacting the Secretary of State to express the urgency of addressing pavement parking and seeking clarity on the government’s plans. Together, our collective voice will ensure the safety of every community member, especially those with visual impairments, remains a top priority.
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Publication date: 11 December 2023