Plans to tackle 'inconsiderate' pavement parking

A STORMONT department is bringing forward legislation to tackle 'inconsiderate' pavement parking, a move welcomed by a local councillor who has been lobbying on the issue.

Infrastructure Minister, Liz Kimmins, said the new legislation will prohibit parking wholly (with four wheels) on a pavement, parking across dropped kerbs for pedestrian access, as well as a ban on double parking.

"Inconsiderate pavement parking has a significant adverse impact in many areas across the north," she said.

"Unfortunately, too many drivers fail to realise the consequences of their actions when their vehicle blocks the footway.

“A vehicle parked fully on a pavement creates serious and often dangerous barriers for pedestrians, forcing people to step out onto the road into oncoming traffic.

"This poses a safety risk particularly for people with disabilities, older people, children and people pushing prams."

Ms Kimmins said her department has been exploring "a number of options" that could be taken forward as positive measures to address inconsiderate pavement parking.

She continued: "I am pleased to confirm that I intend to bring forward legislation which will ban parking wholly on a pavement, parking across dropped kerbs for pedestrian access, and double parking.

“This will complement the steps that we have already taken to address the ongoing issue of inconsiderate pavement parking including introducing legislation to prohibit parking on footways alongside bus lanes, bus stops, mandatory cycle lanes and mandatory ‘School Keep Clear’ markings and encouraging parking compliance across the road network through the promotion of the ‘think before you park’ initiative.

“My officials will now take forward work to develop the necessary secondary legislation to introduce these new measures.

“I would once again remind all drivers of the importance of parking responsibly and legally, and to consider the potential negative impact of their actions on other road, footway, and cycle lane users.”

Local Sinn Féin councillor, Caroline Devine, welcomed the Minister's announcement and pointed to the issues in her own area.

"This is an issue I have been lobbying on for some time," the Derg councillor said.

“This is a major issue in Victoria Bridge whereby vehicles, especially large vehicles like tractors and lorries, are regularly parking on the pavement around the shop.

"Walkers including those with pushchairs, school children, older residents and those with disabilities have to step off the pavement onto a busy road to get around these vehicles. Real safety concerns have been highlighted to me and there have been a number of near misses.

“Following extensive lobbying, the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) have agreed to install bollards on the Mulvin Road and Fyfin Road near the junction at the shop.

"We have met with Road Service officials and I'm continuing to press to have those installed as soon as possible.

“I'm also asking drivers to please be respectful and park responsibly.

"Think about how your actions impact others and keep our streets safe and accessible for everyone."