Overview

This bill aims to make pavement parking illegal in England (outside Greater London) and Wales. It allows for exceptions in certain circumstances, such as emergency services and deliveries, and gives local authorities the power to permit parking in specific areas.

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 pavement. This applies to mechanically propelled vehicles and those designed for towing, excluding heavy commercial vehicles. The bill specifies that a vehicle is considered parked if stationary, regardless of whether the engine is running or the driver is present.

Exceptions:

Several key exceptions are included: emergency vehicles (police, ambulance, fire, coastguard, military), vehicles undertaking street works, waste collection, postal services, urgent healthcare, and vehicles delivering or collecting goods (up to 20 minutes, unattended). Parking within designated parking bays is also permitted, as is parking with police permission.

Enforcement:

The bill treats pavement parking as a traffic contravention, enabling civil enforcement. The Secretary of State and Welsh Ministers must issue guidance to enforcement authorities, prioritizing enforcement in areas with existing traffic regulation orders or where pavement parking has been formally reported.

Commencement:

The main provisions of the bill (sections 1 & 2) will come into force 12 months after the bill becomes law. Other sections, including the guidance, take effect immediately.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending figures. The main cost implications are likely to be related to developing and implementing guidance for enforcement authorities and potential increases in enforcement activities.

Groups Affected

• Drivers: Many drivers may face fines for pavement parking, unless they fall under an exception.
• Pedestrians: Will benefit from increased accessibility and safety.
• Local Authorities: Will be responsible for enforcement and may need to update signage and regulations.
• Emergency Services: Exceptions are made for their operational needs.
• Delivery Drivers: Will need to adapt their practices and possibly face fines if they park on pavements for longer than permitted.

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