Scottish Green MSP, Ross Greer has called for Renfrewshire Council to use new powers to introduce a full ban on pavement parking, with only limited exemptions such as for emergency service vehicles.

The Scottish Government passed a law in 2019 to give councils the power to stop pavement parking, supported by Mr Greer.

Powers to take action under the legislation came into effect last month, meaning all councils are now free to enforce the ban.

Tackling pavement parking will make pavements safer for pedestrians, particularly those with children in buggies, wheelchair users and others with mobility challenges.

However, Renfrewshire Council have indicated that they plan on only beginning enforcement of the ban in November.

In contrast, City of Edinburgh Council will start enforcing the ban from the end of January.

Ross Greer MSP said: “Pavements must be safe for everyone to use, they’re not just extra parking spaces for cars.

“Yet, all over Renfrewshire we see some inconsiderate drivers parking wherever they want, forcing those with buggies, in wheelchairs and other more vulnerable pedestrians onto the road just to get past them.

“Nobody should have to put themselves in a dangerous position because a car is parked where it shouldn’t be. Enforcing this ban is an important step in ensuring that our streets and communities are safer for everyone.

“That’s why I’m encouraging Renfrewshire Council to use these new powers to introduce a full ban with only very limited exemptions as soon as possible.”

By Ricky Kelly

Main writer for Renfrewshire News

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