Motorists to be slapped with £100 penalties as new traffic rules come into effect today impacting thousands

The new rules follow recent legislation introduced in 2019 and again in 2023, which aims to improve safety and accessibility for pedestrians.

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Under the new measures, it will be illegal to park on pavements, on low verges adjacent to roads, in a way that blocks dropped kerbs, or to double park.

The measures aim to protect all road users, especially those with sensory impairments, mobility issues, wheelchair users and families with prams or buggies.

Council Leader Cecil Meiklejohn said: "Our pavements are vital pathways for pedestrians, especially those with mobility challenges and visual impairments. It’s important that motorists park considerately to ensure safe access for everyone.

"Last year, we started issuing advisory notices to help people understand the change. But enforcement is now necessary to protect pedestrians and improve safety across our communities."

The council detailed how people with sight loss are particularly affected by pavement parking, with blind and partially sighted individuals acting as structured, predictable routes.

But when vehicles block these spaces, people are forced onto the traffic, often without warning or protection, significantly increasing the risk of accidents.

Pavement obstructions can also block tactile cues like textured paving and kerb edges, making it harder to navigate safely and independently.

Allan McBride, from Falkirk, explained that as someone who is severely sight impaired, "I often plan my routes in advance to navigate public spaces safely".

"Parked cars on pavements can disrupt these plans, making it harder to get around and requiring me to step onto the road," he stated.

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Mr McBride detailed how small changes like keeping pavements "clear can really help make public spaces more accessible".

Before the penalties came into force last year, the council began issuing warnings to help drivers adjust to the upcoming fines.

In total, the Council issued 1,800 advisory notices, but from today, anyone parking on pavements will receive a £100 fine, although this can be reduced to £50 if paid within 14 days.

During the planning phase, the local authority examined 2,360 roads across the Falkirk Council area, with 21 streets being considered for exemptions.

These locations will not have enforcement until the considerations are complete. On top of these locations, the council will also exclude several vehicles from the new rules, including emergency services, utility works, medical practitioners and delivery vehicles.

Vehicles loading or unloading at any premises will also be exempt from fines, as long as this is within a 20-minute window. Vehicles assisting at an accident or breakdown will also be excluded from penalties.

The roads being considered for exemptions include:

Netherby Road, Airth

Hareburn Avenue, Avonbridge

Glenview Avenue, Banknock

Hillhead Avenue, Banknock

Linden Drive, Banknock

Bridgeness Lane, Bo'ness

School Brae, Bo’ness

Skene Street, Bonnybridge

Gorrie Street, Denny

Arnothill Gardens, Falkirk

Campfield Street, Falkirk

Russel Street, Falkirk

Abbotsford Drive, Grangemouth

Bearcroft Gardens, Grangemouth

Maryflats Place, Grangemouth

John Street, Haggs

Forgie Crescent, Maddiston

Torosay Avenue, Maddiston

Steps Street, Stenhousemuir

Waverly Road, Stenhousemuir

Hookney Terrace, Stoneywood