Charity Demands Enforcement of Pavement Parking Ban in Scotland

A charity has urged for the effective enforcement of the pavement parking ban in Scotland, following a survey that revealed a significant impact on pedestrians. The Scottish Walking and Wheeling Survey, commissioned by Walking Scotland, found that 25% of respondents were compelled to alter their routes last year due to vehicles blocking pavements.

According to the survey results, 54% of adults reported encountering cars parked on pavements in 2025, a rise from 46% in 2023. This increase occurs despite legislation that prohibits pavement parking, which came into effect on December 11, 2023. The ban aims to improve safety for pedestrians, particularly those with mobility challenges, visual impairments, and parents using pushchairs.

The legislation empowers local authorities to issue penalty charge notices of £100 for vehicles parked on pavements, at dropped pavements, or for double parking. As the 2026 Holyrood election approaches, Walking Scotland is calling on all political parties to ensure comprehensive implementation of this ban.

Ian McCall, policy and campaigns officer at Walking Scotland, emphasized the detrimental effects of pavement parking on vulnerable groups. “Cars parked on the pavements impact our most vulnerable groups. It means wheelchair users, parents pushing buggies, and those who are less mobile must change their routes, often forcing them onto busy roads,” he said.

The survey, which included responses from over 2,000 adults, also indicated that 18% of participants would be more inclined to walk or wheel if pavement parking were less prevalent. Additional barriers to walking reported by respondents included poor pavement quality, safety concerns, and limited access to local amenities.

McCall advocated for a pedestrian-first approach to urban planning, stating, “Walking has so many physical and well-being benefits, and creates healthier, happier communities. No one should be prevented from walking and wheeling due to the behaviour of others.” He reinforced the need for proper enforcement of the ban to enhance street accessibility and reduce traffic-related injuries.

A spokesperson for Transport Scotland noted that local authorities are at “various stages of readiness” to enact the ban. They mentioned that some councils have started issuing warning notices in anticipation of official enforcement to encourage changes in parking behavior.

The spokesperson added, “We are working closely with all local authorities, Cosla, and the Scottish Collaboration of Transportation Specialists to support them in enforcing this law as soon as possible.” They explained that prohibitions against pavement parking, double parking, and parking at dropped kerbs were introduced by the Transport (Scotland) Act 2019, aimed at safeguarding pedestrian rights and ensuring accessible streets.

The final elements of supporting legislation came into effect in December 2023, equipping local authorities with the ability to impose penalty charges of £100 (reduced to £50 if paid within 14 days). Additionally, local authorities hold the power to exempt specific areas from the national ban if deemed necessary and in accordance with established criteria.

The Walking and Wheeling Survey queried 2,009 adults between June 16 and July 7, revealing a pressing need for action to address pavement parking issues in Scotland.