Parking on pavements bill is latest for stage 1 consultation

Whether the bill to tackle various forms of problem parking will achieve its objects is the focus of a stage 1 consultation launched by Holyrood's Local Government & Regeneration Committee.

MSPs have begun their scrutiny of the Footway Parking and Double Parking (Scotland) Bill, a member's bill introduced by Sandra White MSP. The bill aims to make it illegal to park on pavements, to benefit people with mobility or visual impairments, or with pushchairs, who may otherwise be forced onto the road to avoid parked cars.

It would also create new offences of parking beside a dropped kerb, and double parking –  defined as parking where no part of the vehicle is within 50 cm of the edge of the carriageway. It would apply to all public roads in built-up areas in Scotland.

Under current legislation, it is an offence to drive on the footway but the position is less clear with regards to casual or occasional parking.

As well as asking for written submissions, the committee has published a survey asking for experiences of the problems caused by parking on pavements. 

Committee convener Kevin Stewart MSP said: “Parking on pavements or double parking is a nuisance and a hazard for all pedestrians. But for some of the most vulnerable in our society, including older people and those with visual or mobility impairments, the impact can be even greater.

“This bill wants to prohibit this type of parking and we want to find out what difference this would make. Does the bill go far enough, and will the proposals really stop parking on pavements?”

Click here to view the call for evidence. Submissions are due by 6 November 2015.