A Kindly Reminder About Pavement Parking

Pavements are designed for people — for children walking to school, neighbours out for a stroll, residents using mobility aids, or those who use prams and buggies. We know parking can be difficult and many don’t have the luxury of a drive or a space to park. When cars or vans park on the pavement, even “just a little bit,” it can unintentionally force these users into the road, where traffic and uneven surfaces make travel unsafe. We have heard from residents with mobility issues or prams that is can be very difficult to navigate dipped kerbs to access their destination, because of cars blocking on the pavement.

Why It Matters

• Wheelchair users often cannot navigate narrow gaps left by pavement parking. Even a small obstruction can make a route impossible.

• Mobility scooters need stable, predictable surfaces — the road is not a safe alternative.

• Parents with double buggies may be forced into busy streets, putting both them and their children at risk.

Most pavement parking isn’t done with bad intentions — often it’s simply a habit or an attempt to keep traffic flowing. But a small change in how we park can make a big difference to someone else’s independence and safety. We ask you to be considerate of others and not disadvantage them with your parking. Here are some gentle, practical ways to help:

• Park fully on the road whenever possible, even if it means walking a few extra steps.

• Leave clear access for wheelchairs, scooters, and buggies — ideally at least 1.2 metres of pavement space.

• Be mindful near schools, bus stops, and community paths where foot traffic is highest.

Thank you for helping to keep Haydon Hill accessible to all.