Politics · 10 January 2026
Councils get new powers to fine pavement parking
The UK government announced new powers for local councils across England to tackle pavement parking after years of campaigning from disability groups. Starting in 2026, councils will be able to introduce area-wide bans rather than lengthy street-by-street restrictions. Civil enforcement officers will have immediate powers to fine drivers for unnecessary obstruction. The changes follow a public consultation where 81% of individuals said pavement parking was problematic in their area. Fines for the new offences have not yet been set, but existing penalties for similar parking violations are typically up to £130.
Reported by Gov.uk · How we write briefs