Research conducted by Startline Motor Finance revealed that the majority of people are in favor of outlawing parking on pavements. Almost two thirds (62%) of respondents expressed support for this idea.
The survey was carried out in response to the Local Government Association’s call for increased authority to impose a pavement parking ban in England.
Of the respondents, 28% considered parking on pavements to be “lazy,” 23% believed that drivers should yield to pedestrians, and 21% found it “annoying.” On the other hand, 24% believed that pavement parking can be done in a way that still allows for pedestrians to walk, and 14% stated that they only park on the pavement when dropping off passengers or making a quick stop at a store.
Currently, the only place in England where pavement parking is prohibited is London, although local governments have the authority to grant exemptions on specific routes. Meanwhile, a consultation on implementing limits on pavement parking is scheduled in Wales, and some authorities in Scotland have recently begun to introduce a statewide parking ban.
CEO Paul Burgess commented on the research findings, stating, “Our research clearly shows significant public annoyance with pavement parking and the lack of space left for pedestrians, which is understandable. However, there is also resistance from drivers who believe that responsible pavement parking is possible.”
He added, “Our suspicion is that many people may not be aware that parking on the pavement is illegal in most places unless signage indicates otherwise. There may be an argument for making the rules clearer, which aligns with the demand from the Local Government Association.”
The Startline Used Car Tracker is compiled on a monthly basis by APD Global Research for Startline Motor Finance.