More than 80 fines issued in Perth and Kinross on the first week of pavement parking ban
A total of 81 fines for pavement parking were issued in Perth and Kinross during the initial week of enforcement. The Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) were handed out by PKC parking attendants starting from January 6 when the pavement parking ban became effective. The ban prohibits pavement parking, double parking, and parking across dropped kerbs as per The Transport (Scotland) Act 2019. Local authorities have the power to enforce this ban and issue fines of £100, which are reduced to £50 if paid within 14 days, through PCNs. Prior to the implementation of the ban, over 850 warning notices were issued to motorists in Perth and Kinross.
PKC economy and infrastructure committee convener, councillor Eric Drysdale, emphasized the importance of this ban in ensuring the safety of people with disabilities, as well as parents pushing prams or buggies. He stated that enforcing the ban not only benefits these individuals but also helps in preserving the condition of pavements. Councillor Drysdale mentioned the positive response from residents in areas where pavement parking has been a significant issue.
The council intends to monitor the situation closely and may introduce exemptions to the ban for specific streets if the enforcement does not provide tangible benefits to pedestrians. The Act allows for certain exceptions to the ban, including emergency services, roadworks, healthcare professionals, and temporary goods delivery.
Individuals can report instances of incorrect parking using the My PKC service, and while every report will be reviewed, it may not be possible for the council to attend every location where violations occur.
Insights:
The implementation of the pavement parking ban in Perth and Kinross has seen a proactive approach from the local authorities in enforcing this regulation. The focus on enhancing accessibility and safety for all pedestrians, especially those with special needs, highlights the council’s commitment to creating a more inclusive environment. By issuing fines and warnings, the aim is not only to regulate parking behaviour but also to educate motorists on responsible parking practices. Monitoring the effectiveness of the ban and considering exemptions for certain situations demonstrate a flexible and pragmatic approach towards addressing parking challenges in the region.
The cooperation between residents, parking attendants, and the council is essential in ensuring the success of such initiatives that aim to improve the overall quality of urban spaces. By raising awareness about the impact of pavement parking and encouraging compliance with the regulations, Perth and Kinross can foster a culture of respect and consideration among road users, ultimately leading to safer and more accessible streets for everyone.