A NATIONAL charity has called on a blanket ban on parking on the pavement across England and Wales to prevent pedestrians being forced into the road.
Living Streets, the UK charity for everyday walking, made the call days after the Scottish Parliament agreed in principle a new law should be passed to implement a nationwide footway parking ban.
The charity wants England and Wales counterparts to follow suit and have called on the Transport Select Committee, which has launched an inquiry into pavement parking in England, to deliver a ban for pedestrians.
Stephen Edwards, director of policy and communications at Living Streets said: “Pavement parking is incredibly dangerous for those in wheelchairs, those living with sight loss and parents with buggies – forcing them into the road and oncoming traffic.
“It is the one issue we are contacted most about at Living Streets, with older people especially reporting they’re unable to leave the house because of vehicles blocking their pavements.
“The Scottish Government has demonstrated a commitment to accessibility and to improving their streets for walking by passing this law. It would be remiss not to follow suit in England and Wales.
“Pavement parking is currently illegal in London, it’s high time that this is rolled out across England and Wales so that everyone can use our streets safely and enjoy the benefits that come from walking more,” he added.
Since being established 90 years ago, Living Streets have championed the joy of walking and campaigned for the UK’s first zebra crossings and speed limits.
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