Pavement Parking: A Curb Too Far?
Pavement Parking:
What Do Drivers Really Think?
More than 80% of drivers in England want the Government to take action on pavement parking, according to new research from the RAC. But there’s little agreement on how best to solve the issue.
🔍 The Split Opinion
In a survey of over 1,700 drivers:
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42% support a full ban on pavement parking across England
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41% prefer giving local councils more power to ban it on specific roads
📬 What Should the Penalty Be?
If a ban is introduced:
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44% of drivers think first-time offenders should get a warning letter
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17% want an instant fine
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16% support a warning, then a fine and penalty points
🚶 It’s a Widespread Problem
Two-thirds of drivers see pavement parking near their homes regularly. For one in three, it’s a daily sight. Even more concerning:
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88% have seen pedestrians forced into the road to get by
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Only 12% say that never happens
📍 What’s Happening Elsewhere?
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London has banned pavement parking since 1974
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Scotland introduced a ban in 2025
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England is still considering next steps, with a government consultation first held back in 2020
🗣️ RAC’s Rod Dennis says:
“No pavement user should be forced into the road because of someone parking inconsiderately.”
Meanwhile, MPs are continuing to push the issue forward — with debates and Private Members’ Bills calling for reform.
