Starting Monday, January 6, 2025, South Lanarkshire Council will enforce new pavement parking legislation, imposing £100 fines on violators. The legislation aims to address obstructive parking practices and improve accessibility for pedestrians, cyclists, and public transportation.
Prohibited Parking Practices Under the Pavement Parking Legislation
The new pavement parking legislation prohibits several common parking practices. Violations include:
- Parking with one or more wheels on any part of the pavement.
- Double parking, which refers to parking alongside another vehicle, irrespective of mutual agreements between vehicle owners.
- Parking more than 50cm away from the carriageway edge, including marked lines, kerbs, or where the road meets the verge.
- Blocking pedestrian and cyclist crossings, particularly at dropped kerbs or raised carriageways.
According to South Lanarkshire Council, these measures are intended to reduce traffic obstructions and enhance safety for all road users.
Fines and Enforcement Procedures
The council has clarified that a £100 fine will apply to motorists violating the new pavement parking legislation. Enforcement responsibilities are divided between local authorities and Police Scotland :
- Council Responsibilities: Issuing tickets for violations in areas with traffic regulation orders, such as bus and taxi lanes.
- Police Scotland: Addressing obstructive parking and other violations outside council jurisdiction.
The council emphasized the importance of reporting non-emergency parking violations by contacting Police Scotland via 101 or using their online contact services.
Additional Guidelines for Homeowners and Restricted Areas
Homeowners with dropped kerbs outside their residences should note that parking on the pavement adjacent to the kerb remains illegal. Furthermore:
- Pre-existing parking restrictions, such as double yellow lines, remain enforceable under the new legislation.
- Parking in compliance with restrictions is still subject to overarching regulations for pavement and obstructive parking.
The council’s guidance aims to prevent confusion over where parking is permitted while maintaining clear distinctions between council and police enforcement roles.
Addressing Public Concerns
Pavement parking has been a longstanding issue, with concerns raised over blocked pedestrian pathways, especially for individuals with disabilities, parents with strollers, and the elderly. A council spokesperson commented:
“The legislation will ensure clearer pathways for pedestrians while addressing safety concerns. Cooperation from motorists will be crucial in achieving the objectives of this regulation.”
The policy aligns with broader initiatives to encourage sustainable transportation and reduce hazards on local roads.
Transition Period and Awareness Campaigns
To ease the transition, South Lanarkshire Council has implemented an awareness campaign detailing the changes in the pavement parking legislation. Motorists are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the legislation before January 6, 2025.
Local law enforcement and council units will monitor compliance, with fixed penalty notices serving as a deterrent to habitual violators.
In addition to issuing penalties, the council plans to install new signage in high-risk areas to clarify parking rules. Educational materials, including leaflets and online guides, are being distributed to ensure the public fully understands the regulations. A council representative emphasized the importance of early compliance, stating that temporary warnings may precede fines during the initial enforcement phase.
By taking these steps, South Lanarkshire aims to promote smoother integration of the pavement parking legislation into everyday driving habits.
This legislative update is part of Scotland’s continued efforts to improve road safety and accessibility. Motorists are advised to review the guidelines carefully to avoid penalties and contribute to creating safer, more pedestrian-friendly communities.
