Council to clamp down on illegal pavement parking around schools

Aberdeenshire Council has teamed up with Police Scotland to clamp down on illegal pavement parking in areas around schools.

It comes after the local authority introduced a ban on pavement parking in December last year after the Scottish Government banned pavement parking, double parking and parking at dropped kerbs.

Under the new policy drivers can be issued with fines of £100 if found to be breaking the law, which can be reduced to £50 if paid within 14 days.

The ban was introduced to create safer and more accessible spaces for pavement users as pavement parking can force people onto roads and increases the risk of accidents.

Since the introduction of the ban, Aberdeenshire Council has issued more than 660 warnings as part of its drive to “educate drivers around the new legislation”.

Local authority is now working in partnership with Police Scotland with teams being sent out to locations across the region where pavement parking has been reported as a problem.

Philip McKay, head of roads and infrastructure services, said that many people face difficulties with pavement parking which can be “dangerous and frustrating”.

“Unfettered access along a footway is important for us all, but especially so for those with additional mobility needs, should that be due to physical difficulties or the need to navigate with a pram or wheelchair.

He said teams along with Police Scotland would be targeting those particular areas around schools where repeated offences are being committed.

“I would encourage all motorists to make themselves aware of this new legislation and familiarise themselves with any local exemptions to avoid the risk of being fined,” Mr McKay added.

Sergeant Joanne Cruickshank of Ellon Police Station said: “These new parking prohibitions will help deter irresponsible parking around schools and ensure pavements are fully accessible for everyone.

“We are working closely with Aberdeenshire Council to tackle the issues raised by residents and will provide support to their Enforcement Officers as these new penalties are introduced.

“Police Scotland will continue to act on any instances of obstruction, pavement driving and other dangerous road activity to ensure the safety of those in the community.”