Major driving law change could see common manoeuvre banned in UK

A significant overhaul of driving regulations is on the horizon as the Labour Government gears up to introduce a major change in driving laws. Drivers across the UK could soon face a blanket ban on pavement parking, signalling a substantial shift in road rules.

The government is currently scrutinising proposals, with a transport minister recently expressing her support for a nationwide prohibition. This potential policy change comes after persistent lobbying from road safety advocates who have highlighted the difficulties pavement parking creates for disabled individuals and parents with prams, reports Birmingham Live.

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The ban could come into effect within months, as ministers are poised to unveil a new transport strategy later this year. Pavement parking has been illegal in London for some time now.

The issue is particularly acute on congested streets, where pedestrians may be put at risk by having to walk onto the road. There's ongoing debate regarding the enforcement of a comprehensive ban, with worries that it could overburden local council resources.

Transport minister Lilian Greenwood recently said: "I can assure my honourable friend that I am on the case, and I look forward to setting out the way forward very soon.

"This Government is committed to publishing a formal response to the consultation and announcing the next steps for pavement parking as soon as possible.

"We are currently considering the consultation outcome, including the views of many local authorities, and the options for tackling this nuisance."

Housing minister Matthew Pennycook said earlier this month: "On pavement parking, I well understand that this can be a real problem for pedestrians, wheelchair users, those with prams and buggies, and especially people with mobility or visual impairments.

"We are mindful of the concerns many people have raised about inconsiderate pavement parking.

As my honourable friend is likely already aware, the Department for Transport held a consultation back in 2020 on the complex problem of pavement parking.

"This Government intend to publish a formal response to that consultation later this year, which will summarise the views received and announce the Government's next steps for pavement parking policy."