Drivers could soon be slapped with huge £150 fine for parking on the pavement under new rules
Drivers in Scotland could soon face consequences when parking
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A consultation recently ended in Scotland that looked to hear opinions from the public about the issue of pavement parking and how to properly enforce restrictions.
Under the plans, anyone falling foul of the rules will be fined £50 if they pay within 14 days, rising to £100 if the driver pays between the 15th and 28th day.
If a driver does not pay the fine in the 28-day period, they will receive a charge certificate and be made to pay £150.
In extreme events where drivers do not pay the larger fee, the local authority can take “further action” to enforce the debt.
The Scottish Government is expected to move forward with the measures
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Pavement parking has become more common in recent years, especially in areas where the amount of housing outnumbers the space needed for parking spaces.
Some drivers choose to park on the pavement to create more space on the road, but experts state that it can lead to issues for pedestrians, especially those who are more vulnerable.
The new proposed measures from the Scottish Government were originally meant to be introduced in 2020 but were delayed as a result of the pandemic.
The public consultation is believed to be the final step needed before the Government pushes through the legislation and hands power to local authorities.
Kevin Stewart MSP, Minister for Transport, said the Scottish Government had been working to improve conditions for all road users when it comes to parking.
He specifically pointed to the “inconsiderate and obstructive” behaviour when motorists park on the pavement, blocking access to pedestrians.
He said: “As part of this work, the Transport (Scotland) Act 2019 bans pavement parking, double parking and parking at dropped kerbs, and gives local authorities the relevant powers to enforce these new provisions.
“The Act also gives local authorities the power to exempt footways from the pavement parking prohibition in certain circumstances and in accordance with Ministerial Directions.”
Pavement parking is already illegal in London and drivers can be fined as much as £70 for breaching the traffic order.
Rule 244 of the Highway Code instructs drivers not to partially or wholly park on the pavement in London and should not do so unless signs permit it.
It goes on to say that pavement parking can obstruct those who need additional space away from the road including those in wheelchairs or those with visual impairments.
Motoring organisation RAC advises motorists to “use their common sense” when they don’t have any other place to park.
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Parking on the pavement is already banned in London
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If they need to park on a narrow road, the RAC states it would be sensible to park partially on the road to ensure other vehicles can get past.