Infrastructure Minister has announced she will bring
forward legislation to tackle inconsiderate pavement parking
across the north.
The new legislation will prohibit parking wholly (with 4 wheels)
on a pavement; parking across dropped kerbs for pedestrian
access; as well as a ban on double parking.
Minister Kimmins said: “Inconsiderate pavement parking
has a significant adverse impact in many areas across the north.
Unfortunately, too many drivers fail to realise the consequences
of their actions when their vehicle blocks the
footway.
“A vehicle parked fully on a pavement creates serious and
often dangerous barriers for pedestrians,
forcing people to step out onto the road into oncoming
traffic. This poses a safety risk particularly
for people with disabilities, older people, children and people
pushing prams.
“My department has been exploring a number of options
that could be taken forward as positive measures to address
inconsiderate pavement parking. I am pleased to confirm
that I intend to bring forward legislation which will ban parking
wholly on a pavement; parking across dropped kerbs for pedestrian
access; and double parking.
“This will complement the steps that we have already
taken to address the ongoing issue of inconsiderate pavement
parking including introducing legislation to prohibit parking on
footways alongside bus lanes, bus stops, mandatory cycle lanes
and mandatory ‘School Keep Clear' markings and encouraging
parking compliance across the road network through the promotion
of the ‘think before you park' initiative.
“My officials will now take forward work to
develop the necessary secondary legislation to introduce
these new measures.
“I would once again remind all drivers of the importance
of parking responsibly and legally, and to
consider the potential negative impact of their actions on other
road, footway, and cycle lane users.”
The Inclusive Mobility and Transport Advisory Committee (IMTAC)
Chairperson Terry McCorry said: “Inconsiderate parking on the
pavement and the blocking of dropped kerbs create hazards for
disabled people and others that prevent us making day to day
journeys. IMTAC very much welcomes the changes announced by
Minister Kimmins today as a significant step forward in tackling
the issue. We will continue to work with the Minister to identify
what else can be done to eradicate this anti-social behaviour.”
Notes to editors:
- Secondary legislation will be developed to bring this
initiative into effect.
