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08
Jan
Mayor welcomes new powers to restrict pavement parking
The Mayor of York and North Yorkshire has welcomed new powers to restrict parking on the region’s pavements.
The government announced today (January 8) that local authorities will be given the power to impose restrictions in areas where people often block pavements by parking their cars.
Labour mayor David Skaith said the move would allow councils to tackle the problem.
Mr Skaith recently met the charity Vision Support Harrogate to hear about the issues blind and partially sighted people face with pavement parking in areas such as Claro Road in Harrogate.
He said:
Pavement parking makes it harder for some of the most vulnerable people in our communities to get around. Children walking to school, parents with pushchairs and people with disabilities are all too often forced into the road by vehicles blocking pavements.
Outside of London, councils have been powerless to do anything about it. That’s why I welcome this announcement, which will give us the powers we need to return pavements to the people they are meant for by keeping them clear, safe, and accessible.
Tanya Simpson, director at Vision Support Harrogate, said:
We are delighted that the needs of people with sight loss are finally being recognised by our government.
For people living with sight loss, these changes are not just about convenience, they are about safety, dignity, and the fundamental right to independent travel.
The law ensures that pathways remain clear allowing people with sight loss to complete journeys safely, to work, shops, or social events without life-threatening interruptions.
Under the new powers, local leaders will be able to decide to take action on pavement parking in their area and will retain flexibility where they deem pavement parking may still be acceptable.
The Department for Transport said it will set out guidance to help local authorities use the new powers later this year.
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