Drivers have been warned of new traffic rules which could see thousands slapped with £100 fines this week for poor parking measures.
It comes after East Dunbartonshire Council introduced a new pavement parking ban from Monday, September 1, with drivers now at risk of penalties for breaking the new rules.
Under the new measures, drivers can be fined £100 for pavement parking, although this can be reduced to £50 if paid within 14 days.
The move followed the Transport (Scotland) Act 2019, which prohibited parking on pavements, double parking, and blocking dropped kerbs, and gave councils the power to enforce these rules.
Do you have a story you'd like to share? Get in touch by emailing motoring@gbnews.uk
Drivers will now be fined £100 if caught breaking the pavement parking rules | GETTYThe legislation aims to improve pedestrian safety, particularly for people with mobility issues, as well as people with visual impairments, and parents or carers with pushchairs.
Councillors and road safety experts highlighted that pavements were not designed to bear the weight of vehicles with persistent parking, causing significant damage, creating trip hazards, and leading to costly repairs.
Councillor Paul Ferretti said: "The message here is clear: pavement parking is unsafe, unfair and illegal. Many people face daily difficulties with pavement parking. It is dangerous and frustrating, especially for those with impairments or limited mobility and with mental health challenges.
"Pavement parking can force people using wheelchairs, guide dogs or pushing buggies onto the road, putting their safety at risk."
Drivers can be fined for using the pavement incorrectly and causing an obstruction | GETTYHe added that even for drivers who think they have left enough space, pavement parking can have "harmful consequences".
The council noted that there were exceptions which fall in line with Section 55 of the Transport (Scotland) Act 2019.
Emergency vehicles such as police, ambulance, Scottish Fire and Rescue Services, HM Coastguard, or naval and air force vehicles would be exempt from the charge.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
Other exceptions included roadworks, removal of traffic obstructions, waste collection by local authorities, postal deliveries, urgent health care by registered practitioners, accident or breakdown assistance, and deliveries or collections for up to 20 minutes.
Prior to the fines being enforced, the council launched a public awareness campaign to ensure residents, workers, and drivers were fully informed of the rules.
Officials explained that the goal of the campaign was not to penalise motorists unnecessarily but to make pavements safer and more accessible for everyone.
Mr Ferretti added: "Drivers need to understand that parking on pavements is not acceptable. Enforcement begins on September 1, and we hope this encourages everyone to do the right thing."
The campaign on pavement parking hoped to ensure drivers were fully informed of the rules
|EAST DUNBARTONSHIRE COUNCIL
East Dunbartonshire Council shared on X: "Pavement parking is a particular issue for people with mobility issues, visual impairments, and parents or carers with prams and buggies.
"The legislation makes it illegal to park on the pavement in Scotland, as well as double parking and at dropped kerbs."
The council also conducted a detailed review of its road and footway network with an external consultant identifying 13 streets suitable for exemption orders.
Exempted streets include:
Catter Gardens, Milngavie
Endrick Gardens, Milngavie
Ardlui Gardens, Milngavie
Finglen Gardens, Milngavie
Lammermuir Gardens, Bearsden
Myrtle Square, Bishopbriggs
Springfield Square, Bishopbriggs
Springfield Crescent, Bishopbriggs
Dumgoyne Avenue, Milngavie
Kinglas Road, Bearsden
Maxwell Avenue, Bearsden
Glenburn Crescent, Milton of Campsie
David Donnelly Place, Kirkintilloch