Overview

This bill aims to make pavement parking illegal in England (excluding Greater London) and Wales. It allows for exceptions in specific circumstances, such as emergency services and deliveries, and empowers local authorities to manage parking on pavements.

Description

The Pavement Parking Bill amends the Road Traffic Act 1988 to create a new offense: parking a vehicle, even partially, on a verge or footway. This includes vehicles that are stationary, regardless of whether the engine is running or the driver is present. Heavy commercial vehicles are excluded.

Exemptions

The bill outlines several exemptions from this offense, including:

• Emergency services (police, ambulance, fire, coastguard, military).
• Street works, obstruction removal, waste collection, postal services.
• Urgent or emergency healthcare provision by registered medical professionals.
• Deliveries and collections of goods (limited to 20 minutes, and the vehicle must not be left unattended).
• Parking within designated parking areas.
• Parking with police permission.
• Vehicles broken down or providing assistance at an accident/breakdown.

Highway authorities can authorize pavement parking by resolution, with the Secretary of State having similar powers. The Secretary of State can also create regulations for exemptions and signage requirements.

The bill also amends the Traffic Management Act 2004 to include the new offense as a traffic contravention and mandates consultation and guidance from the Secretary of State and Welsh Ministers to civil enforcement authorities before the act comes into force. Enforcement will prioritize areas with existing traffic regulation orders or where pavement parking is reported.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending. However, implementation will likely involve costs associated with consultation, guidance development, and potential enforcement efforts by local authorities.

Groups Affected

• Drivers: May face fines for pavement parking, except in exempted situations.
• Local authorities: Responsible for enforcement and may incur costs related to implementing the changes.
• Emergency services: Exempted but may experience limitations if existing parking practices are changed.
• Delivery drivers: Must adhere to the 20-minute time limit and other conditions.
• Pedestrians: Could benefit from reduced obstructions on pavements.
• Businesses: May need to adapt delivery and loading/unloading practices.

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