Pavement parking could be banned in Eastbourne – ‘bring it on’ says disability group

The Transport Secretary has announced proposals today (March 12) to make streets safer for disabled people.

The Government will be consulting on the proposals which aim to improve the lives of people with mobility or visual impairments, as well as parents with prams.

Ian Westgate of Eastbourne Access Group said, “I’m all for it. I’m hoping it will become a national law and be adopted here.

“It will be a great help for people with disabilities and impairments as well as mums with buggies and children.”

The 65-year-old, who uses a wheelchair, said, “I’m very much in favour of the idea because pavement parking has been the bane of people’s lives in Eastbourne for a long time.

“Disabled people have been very poorly served, it would be great if this becomes a national requirement.

“I’m absolutely in favour, bring it on.”

Ray Blakebrough, also of Eastbourne Access Group, said, “Vehicles on footways can cause obstruction and inhibit the independence of vulnerable people in our town, especially older people, those with disabilities or with visual impairement.

“Pavements are also not built to withstand the weight if vehicles thus they often break up and damage what should be safe walking spaces.

“This brings added danger to pedestrians and financial repair burdens for our cash-strapped councils. The Eastbourne Access Group welcomes this move.”

The Government is launching a 12-week consultation into the proposals, which will include options like allowing local authorities to crack down on unnecessary obstruction of the pavement with civil enforcement powers.

Currently, outside of London, only police have this power.

It is also considering a nationwide ban on pavement parking which would be enforced by the local council.

However, this would allow for any necessary exceptions or designated spots for pavement parking where needed, the Government says.

This news comes after Pevensey and Bexhill MP Huw Merriman hosted a Transport Select Committee inquiry looking into the issue in Bexhill.