A ban on motorists parking on pavements that is in place in London could be taken nationwide under Government plans. In a consultation launching today, the Department for Transport is looking at a number of options, including giving councils the power to fine drivers causing obstructions – even if not in a zone where pavement parking is banned. Recent research showed that 32% of people with vision impairments and 48% of wheelchair users were “less willing to go out on their own because of pavement parking, decreasing independence and contributing towards isolation”, the department said.

Here in Twerton and much of Bath we have terrible problems with parking in certain roads and would need to look at exemptions in certain areas whilst allowing access for disabled persons.

This will not be any easy task but we do need to ensure that the safety of pedestrians is paramount.