​MSPs to debate pavement parking ban in Scotland

A pavement parking ban will take one step closer next week with a debate in parliament.

The proposed Clause 22 of the Scotland bill will ensure that offences in relation to parking on pavements can be enforced by the Scottish Parliament.

Ian Murray, Labour MP for Edinburgh South and shadow secretary of state has been working closely with Living Streets and Guide Dogs Scotland in order to table the new clause at the committee stage of the bill (6th July 2015), to stop obstructive parking in Scotland.

Chris Thompson, Living Streets project manager, said: “We’re encouraged to see that the pavement parking bill in Scotland is being taken seriously, it’s about time.

"Pavement parking is the biggest complaint we get here at Living Streets and it affects many people’s lives.

Pavement parking is the biggest complaint we get here - Chris Thompson

“While pavement parking in London was banned 40 years ago, Scotland has been waiting for the issue to be addressed for too long. Parking on pavements causes inconvenience and danger.”

If passed, campaigners say the amendment will help boost the number of pedestrians visiting their local high street shops and bring down maintenance costs for local councils who have to shell out millions of pounds a year on repairing cracked pavements which have been damaged from cars.

Ian Murray MP said: “Legislation to harmonise the law on pavement parking would mean that there is one law for everyone and would send a clear message that putting pedestrians in danger is not acceptable.

"Parking on the footway should only be permitted where a local authority determines that it is both necessary and safe to do so,”

Jane Horsburgh, policy manager for Guide Dogs Scotland added: “There is public and political support in Scotland for action on irresponsible parking, which is dangerous for pedestrians with sight loss.”