Dumfries and Galloway Council Adopts Gentle Approach to Enforcing Pavement Parking Ban
Dumfries and Galloway Council is gearing up to enforce a ban on pavement parking without immediately imposing fines. Although local authorities in Scotland have the jurisdiction to issue fines of up to £100 to drivers who park on pavements post-enforcement commencement, the council is opting for a softer stance. A council spokesperson mentioned, “While the ban is effective across Scotland, individual local authorities determine the suitable enforcement strategy.”
Under the Transport (Scotland) Act 2019, regulations were introduced to prohibit pavement and double parking. By the conclusion of 2023, councils were granted the power to penalise violators. Despite this, in Dumfries and Galloway, the responsibility of issuing parking tickets currently rests with the police. Nevertheless, last April, the council consented to proceed with decriminalised parking enforcement (DPE).
Parking attendants are anticipated to return to the streets in the region once Transport Scotland sanctions the application. The spokesperson elaborated, “The council’s communities committee approved the Dumfries and Galloway Regional Parking Strategy and action plan on April 2, 2024, which includes our approach to DPE and pavement parking.”
While fines for obstructive or hazardous parking will fall under Police Scotland’s jurisdiction, the council’s focus will primarily be on educating the public about the new legislation. The move signifies a transitional period towards more accountable parking practices in the region.
Incorporating an educational approach to enforcing the pavement parking ban illustrates the council’s commitment to fostering awareness and compliance among motorists. By prioritising education over immediate penalties, Dumfries and Galloway Council aims to promote responsible parking habits and enhance pedestrian safety along the region’s streets. With the impending return of parking wardens pending approval, the transition towards regulated parking behaviour is underway in Dumfries and Galloway.