Parking in the Village

During last night’s Parish Meeting in the village hall, local residents highlighted an issue about parking on pavements and that it is becoming more commonplace in the village.

Although, we are sure that drivers are trying to be considerate to other road users by leaving more room in the road for passing traffic, it does affect pedestrians using the pavement, especially those in wheelchairs or with visual impairments, and those with prams or pushchairs.

It was unanimously agreed at the meeting that we should politely remind our residents and their visitors via the Aldham Grapevine Community Facebook page, that it is illegal to park on the pavement and be thoughtful when parking for both traffic and pedestrians.

Can we please remind all residents and their visitors that…

In Aldham, Colchester and the rest of the UK, parking on pavements is generally prohibited unless signs permit it, with local councils able to enforce restrictions through Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) and issue Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs). 

• General Rule:
  You should not park partially or wholly on the pavement or footpath unless signs permit it. 
• Pavement Parking Issues:
  Pavement parking can obstruct and inconvenience pedestrians, people in wheelchairs or with visual impairments, and people with prams or pushchairs. 
• If you see pavement parking:
  If you can find the owner of the vehicle, we'd first recommend asking them politely to move it. If you can't find them, try leaving a note on their windscreen. After all, they may not realise they have caused a problem. If this doesn't work, please contact Colchester City Council. 
• Local Authority Control:
  Local councils in England and Wales can implement TROs to prohibit pavement parking, which must be clearly indicated by signs or markings. 
• Enforcement:
  Council Civil Enforcement Officers can enforce these restrictions by issuing PCNs. 
• Highway Code:
  Rule 244 of the Highway Code states: "You MUST NOT park partially or wholly on the pavement in London and should not do so elsewhere unless signs permit it." 
• Exceptions:
  There may be exceptions for specific locations or vehicles, such as when parking is essential for loading and unloading, but even then, the vehicle must not be left unattended. 
• Penalties:
  Parking on the pavement where prohibited can result in a Fixed Penalty Notice (typically £50 or more) or a Penalty Charge Notice (typically £50 to £130).