According to a recent announcement, the government plans to give councils new powers to issue fines to those who cause "unnecessary obstruction" when parking on the pavement. Details as awaited, particularly on how unnecessary obstruction will be defined.

This feels like an initiative whose time is due. Pavement parking can stop disabled people such as those in a power wheelchair or the visually impaired, and people with a push chair, from getting around. With most corners having a dropped kerb it is easier for everyone and gives so much freedom, but it is all for naught if they come across a vehicle blocking the pavement that they cannot get past. A power wheelchair cannot simple dismount the kerb to get by.

What does concern us is the small number of roads in which if there were no pavement parking the road would be blocked and unusable - there is at least one in Belmont ward. We need to know what the solution is for such roads, and to see more details on the government proposal before we can form a judgement.

We’ll look out for more information, meanwhile please park considerately and look to see if everyone could get past your vehicle on the pavement.