Pavement parking: what’s the answer?

A HGV was brought to a standstill in Padfield this week, after being blocked by a car parked on double yellow lines.

The HGV was attempting to turn onto Temple Street from Platt Street, and whilst the owner of the vehicle was quickly tracked down and the car removed, the issue highlighted a bigger problem. 

The driver of the HGV told the Glossop Chronicle, “Driving around Glossop is awful. The streets are tight enough as it is, and often cars are double-parked. I understand the lack of space on some roads and the need for pavement parking.” 

This issue has long been a point of tension across the UK. While some drivers argue they have no choice but park on pavements to keep traffic moving, pedestrians say the practice is dangerous and inconsiderate. Parents with pushchairs, older residents, and people with sight and mobility issues are often forced into the road when pavements are blocked. 

Under current law, pavement parking is banned only in London. Across the rest of England it is not automatically illegal, though police or councils can take action where vehicles are causing an obstruction or ignoring other restrictions such as yellow lines or dropped kerbs. By contrast, Scotland introduced a nationwide ban on pavement parking in December 2023. 

The issue was debated by MP’s in Westminster on Wednesday (Sept 3). One described the practice as “downright dangerous” warning it was making life impossible for people with disabilities, parents with prams, and those with sight loss.  

Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood promised to publish a formal response on the next steps soon. 

Both High Peak Borough Council and Derbyshire County Council encourage residents to report parking issues that obstruct pavements or create hazards. Both councils partner in the ‘Park Smarter’ initiative, which focuses on enforcement and community awareness. Derbyshire County Council manages Civil Parking Enforcement which means traditional traffic wardens have been replaced by Civil Enforcement Officers who have broader powers, helping the council manage parking more effectively and safely. 

Many in Glossop say the town urgently needs clearer rules, and more considerate parking, to keep its streets safe and accessible for everyone.