Older drivers could be among the most affected demographic by new parking rule changes set to go ahead in 2026. Labour will introduce new powers granting leaders authority to introduce pavement parking restrictions.
The change means that local leaders across the UK will be able to take action on those stopping their vehicles on the kerb for the first time. The move is thought to boost safety, clearing pavements for vulnerable pedestrians such as those with limited mobility or visual impairments.
However, a recent Department for Transport (DfT) consultation looking into the feasibility of a national pavement parking ban suggested the move could actually become a serious problem for older drivers. New rules could force older motorists to park a long distance away, making many services completely inaccessible.
The DfT consultation read: “It could have a detrimental impact on the elderly, disabled people and parents with prams or young children who may be deprived of access to village amenities as many villages do not have space for car parks near shops, churches and sports facilities. This could potentially result in the loss of trade for small businesses.”
According to the DfT report, commercial businesses and other organisations also had concerns that residents living in terraced houses with no off-street parking facilities may be forced to park further away from their homes. They argued that this “would be worse for elderly and disabled people” in a major blow.
The report said this could mean road users holding Blue Badges may need to be completely exempt from pavement parking rules. Meanwhile, the report said that exemptions may need to be extended to all vehicles with elderly, disabled or vulnerable passengers.
The report said there had also been calls for residents or carers picking up and dropping off elderly patients to also be exempt from any pavement parking legislation.
Announcing the new pavement parking changes, Local Transport Minister, Lilian Greenwood backed the new update.
She said: “Clear pavements are essential for people to move around safely and independently, whether that’s a parent with a pushchair, someone using a wheelchair, or a blind or partially sighted person.
“That’s why we’re giving local authorities the power to crack down on problem pavement parking, allowing more people to travel easily and safely and get to where they need to go.”
