Stop stalling on problem parking

Scottish Government needs to stop stalling on action to address problem parking, says Living Streets Scotland, part of the UK charity for everyday walking.  

Responding to the Government’s consultation (28 July 2023) on how to enforce the ban on parking on the footways and dropped kerbs, the charity says the Transport (Scotland) Act 2019 will be potentially life changing for disabled and older pedestrians who are currently prevented from using footways blocked by vehicles and will make walking safer for children walking to school. 

Stuart Hay, Director, Living Streets Scotland said:  

“We were delighted when Scotland became the first nation to ban parking on the pavement and are pleased to see some progress being made. This will be life changing for older people, wheelchair users and families with buggies who are currently forced into the carriageway and into oncoming traffic when the footways are blocked.  

“However, it’s been over three years since the Transport Act was passed and there are still problems to be ironed out and loopholes to be closed. We are keen to see clear, consistent enforcement across Scotland, as this is the only way to stop this dangerous behaviour. We also need a publicity campaign to let people know about the changes.” 

In their consultation response, the charity also highlighted the need to increase parking fines in line with inflation.  

Stuart Hay continues:  

“Parking fines have remained at the same level for several years, so we question whether they are even meaningful for better off drivers. We are concerned that a reduced fine for those who can pay within two weeks is effectively a subsidy for drivers on higher incomes who have a more flexible budget across such a short period.” 

Read Living Streets Scotland’s full response here.