New parking rules to improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians

New parking enforcement rules are to be introduced across Sheffield aimed at making roads and pavements safer for cyclists and pedestrians.

From Monday 20 May, motorists could be issued a penalty charge if they park across dropped kerbs (which have been lowered for vehicle access or pedestrians), in cycle lanes, or are not parked close to the kerb.

HGVs will also not be allowed to park with wheels on the footway, unless loading (as allowed by national regulations), while non-licenced vehicles parked up and offering goods for sale may also be penalised.

The new enforcement rules have been introduced following a recent consultation where over half of those who replied had experienced vehicles blocking their driveways while over 70% said they had experienced vehicles blocking pedestrians, dropped kerbs and double parking.

Motorists who are found to be breaking the new enforcement rules and causing obstruction to other road users, could face a fine of £70, reduced to £35 if paid within 14 days.

Richard Eyre, Director of Streetscene and Regulation at Sheffield City Council, said: “The aim of these new enforcement rules is to keep pedestrians and cyclists safe on Sheffield’s roads and these new rules allow the council to enforce against obstructive parking that could previously only be enforced by the police.

“Double parking, for example, may obstruct other road users including emergency services vehicles while parking in front of dropped kerbs can put people with visual impairments, or with restricted mobility at risk as well as impacting drivers trying to enter or leave a premises.”

* Drivers are also reminded they need to obtain a pay and display ticket or PaybyPhone session as soon as they park their vehicle.

If drivers are short of cash, many locations now offer an option to pay by card at a machine while PaybyPhone allows drivers to pay via an app, online www.paybyphone.co.uk or by telephone.

Failure to display a valid parking ticket could result in a fine of £50, reduced to £25 if paid within 14 days.

For more information on the council’s enforcement and appeals policy can be found at Civil Parking and Bus Lane Enforcement Policy | Sheffield City Council