Pavement and junction parking draws BCP Council response

BCP Council has pleaded with drivers to park considerately and say they would welcome government suggestions to grant local authorities more power to tackle pavement parking, which some residents say is getting worse in the region.

This follows residents in Upton describing pavement parking in their area as a “nightmare” and emergency services in Dorset have also spoken out against the impact it has on response times.

Dorset Fire & Rescue Service said: “Poor or inconsiderate parking, even if only for a few minutes, can delay us during an emergency call and, in the case of a rapidly developing fire, every second counts.

Dorset fire engine trying to pass a parked car in a narrow road. Picture: Dorset and Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service

“Roads near schools are often difficult to pass through safely, especially when cars are dropping off or picking up children. You may not be parking illegally, but is there a smarter option?”

A resident living near West Howe Industrial Estate says he has seen collisions, lorries blocked, and has even considered moving because of the disruption.

“There are times you can’t get out of your house,” he said.

“The pavement parking blocks access for pushchair and wheelchair users and elderly people who have to then walk in the road, someone will get hurt.

Pavement and junction parking problems in the West Howe area

“It’s massively congested and happens every day and is getting worse. We have complained to the council but it falls on deaf ears.”

The man, who did not wish to be named, suggested introducing parking permits for residents who live in the affected roads and parking meters for those who do not.

A BCP Council spokesperson said: “We know that irresponsible parking can have a huge impact on our communities, residents and businesses. Please be considerate to all road users when parking a vehicle and do not park on footways as this makes it dangerous for pedestrians.

“Parking on the pavement is not an offence that the council can act on, unless it is where there are yellow lines which are operational at the time.

Pavement parking problems in the West Howe area

“However we welcome the news in the Queen’s Speech where the government is looking into giving local authority’s powers to tackle pavement parking.

“Our parking enforcement team carry out patrols on our streets as often as possible. They will issue Penalty Charge Notices to vehicles that are parking illegally and in some instances tow vehicles away.”

Visit bcpcouncil.gov.uk/Parking/Report-an-illegally-parked-vehicle.aspx or call 01202 128900 to report illegally parked vehicles.