Perthshire drivers warned in advance of pavement parking ban

Perthshire Drivers Warned in Advance of Pavement Parking Ban

Residents of a Perthshire village were taken aback as they discovered what seemed to be penalties for pavement parking weeks before fines were due to be enforced. The Perth and Kinross Council (PKC) had announced in late October that the pavement parking ban would be implemented on Monday, January 6 under The Transport (Scotland) Act 2019. However, residents of Inchture expressed their dismay last week upon finding official PKC notices placed on their vehicles, labelled prominently as “Perth and Kinross Council Penalty Charge Notice.”

One motorist shared on social media their surprise at receiving a notice for parking on the pavement, stating, “We live in a cul-de-sac and can’t believe the council is doing this in this village.” It was later clarified that these notices were warnings rather than actual fines. The new legislation aims to prevent pavement parking, double parking, and parking across dropped kerbs to enhance pedestrian safety, especially for individuals with mobility issues, visual impairments, and parents with pushchairs.

PKC highlighted January 6 as the enforcement date and mentioned their focus on approximately 2000 streets in the region where pavement parking has been a significant concern for residents. Councillor Eric Drysdale, convener of the PKC economy and infrastructure committee, stressed the dangers associated with pavement parking and expressed hope that public awareness of the new rules would lead to safer and appropriate parking practices, reducing the need for fines.

In response to the social media complaints, Councillor Angus Forbes clarified that the notices were part of an introductory phase to acquaint people with the upcoming regulations and were not actual fines. Councillor Alasdair Bailey also referenced a PKC statement online outlining the enforcement procedures, including the issuance of advisory notices before the enforcement of fines on January 6, 2025.

Exceptions to the ban, as specified in the Act, include emergency services, roadworks, urgent healthcare services, and short-term goods delivery. The PKC spokesperson reiterated the advisory nature of the current notices and highlighted that fines would officially be introduced on January 6. It was clarified that the recent social media post showing a fine had been misinterpreted, as it was indeed a warning notice rather than a penalty charge.

In summary, Perthshire drivers have been forewarned about the upcoming pavement parking ban set to take effect in January 2025, with PKC issuing advisory notices to inform motorists and ensure compliance with the new regulations.

Insights and Summary:
The introduction of a pavement parking ban in Perthshire has sparked discussions and reactions among residents, emphasizing the importance of pedestrian safety and responsible parking practices. By issuing warnings in advance of fines, the Perth and Kinross Council aims to educate the community about the upcoming regulations and promote compliance with the law. The focus on particular problem areas and exceptions specified in the legislation reflects a comprehensive approach to address parking issues while considering practical considerations for emergency services and essential services. As the enforcement date nears, heightened awareness and adherence to the new rules are crucial for creating safer and more accessible environments for all members of the community.