City councillors welcome stronger powers to keep pavements clear and safe

Under the new Government proposals, expected to come into effect later this year, councils across England will have clearer powers to fine drivers that block pavements and create safety risks.

Currently, blanket bans only apply in London and Scotland, while councils elsewhere can only introduce restrictions on certain streets.

For the Lib Dems, keeping the city’s pavements clear and safe is a key commitment in this year’s local election manifesto.

Leader of Milton Keynes Liberal Democrats, Councillor Jane Carr, said:

"This is a positive step forward that can help to reduce the risk to pedestrians, wheelchair users, parents with prams and children walking to school. But this isn’t about blaming drivers.

In some of our older towns like Newport Pagnell, roads were never designed for the number of cars we have today. Sometimes drivers park partly on the pavement simply to keep traffic moving safely, so we understand the reality. What matters is working with residents to identify genuine problem areas and finding solutions that balance the needs of everyone who uses our streets. Milton Keynes has high car ownership, with nearly 80% of all households having access to at least one private car. The city’s grid road network provides fast and convenient journeys by car that can’t be matched with public transport."

Councillor Marie Bradburn, who represents Bradwell, added:

"Pavement parking can damage the pavement itself and repairing that damage costs money. So, getting this right protects both safety and public money. The City Council will need more guidance and proper funding to make these powers work fairly. It will also require careful planning, looking at where the problems are and working closely with residents before taking action.

Alongside this, we need to keep improving our transport network and supporting walking and cycling where it works for people. As a cyclist myself, I know safety matters, particularly in darker months and in areas where street lighting can be an issue."

Milton Keynes City Council is currently seeking feedback on how residents travel and why they make the travel choices they do. This will help shape a new Local Transport Plan for the city.