Birmingham drivers could soon face fines for breaking a new pavement rule, as city council bosses announce a crackdown on pavement parking. The new measures, expected to come into force later this year, will ban motorists from parking on pavements in parts of Birmingham.
New Powers from Government
Council leaders say they will take advantage of new powers available from the Government aimed at improving safety for pedestrians. Rule-breakers could be hit with fines up to £70, based on existing council parking penalty charge notices (PCNs).
Focus Areas
Road bosses will be able to select routes to be covered by the new measures. This is expected to be focused around the city centre and busy roads, as well as hotspot areas where there are known parking issues. The rules will be enforced in a similar way to double yellow lines, with traffic wardens patrolling hotspot areas.
The crackdown follows years of campaigning to ban pavement parking across the country. Councillor Majid Mahmood, cabinet member for environment and transport at the city council, said: "We welcome the Government’s decision to grant councils new powers to keep pavements clear."
He added: "These powers will help us make our pavements safer, more accessible and more inclusive for everyone who relies on them. Inconsiderate and illegal pavement parking creates barriers to walking and cycling and for those who need mobility aids, and can contribute to road collisions. These new measures, which we have been pushing for, will go a long way to help communities move safely around the city."
Motorists are advised to be aware of the upcoming changes and avoid parking on pavements in designated areas to avoid fines.
