Parking on verges and pavements is a real problem, here’s a good example on Worcester Road Grantham.

As a local councillor in Grantham, one of the most frequent complaints I receive from residents is about cars parking on verges and pavements. It’s an issue that not only causes inconvenience but also poses significant safety hazards and damages the character of our streets.

The Impact on Pedestrians and Residents

When vehicles mount pavements or park on grassy verges, the consequences are immediate and far-reaching. Parents with pushchairs, wheelchair users, and visually impaired residents are forced into the road, increasing their risk of accidents. What should be a simple walk to school or the shops becomes a dangerous obstacle course.

Beyond safety, there’s the problem of damage. Grass verges, meant to provide an aesthetic and environmental benefit to our neighbourhoods, are often churned into unsightly mud patches. Once damaged, these areas are expensive to repair, and the cost often falls to local authorities or residents themselves.

Why Do Drivers Do It?

There are several reasons why drivers resort to parking on verges and pavements. In some areas, narrow roads leave little room for parking, and motorists see the verge as an easy solution. Others may believe that by keeping part of their vehicle off the road, they are helping traffic flow. Unfortunately, in trying to solve one problem, they create many others.

Enforcement and Challenges

Enforcement is another issue altogether. While obstruction of the pavement is an offence under the Highway Act, Lincolnshire Police, like many other counties, struggles with adequate enforcement resources.

The law itself is another challenge. Unlike London, where pavement parking is generally banned unless otherwise stated, the rest of England operates under a patchwork of rules that make enforcement inconsistent. Calls for a nationwide ban have been discussed in Parliament, but so far, progress has been slow.

What Can Be Done?

As a councillor, I believe tackling this issue requires a combination of enforcement, education, and infrastructure changes:

  • Better Awareness – Many drivers simply do not realise the inconvenience and hazards they create. Local awareness campaigns could highlight the dangers of parking on pavements and verges.
  • Stronger Enforcement – Where possible, increasing the number of police patrols and fines for repeat offenders could deter bad parking habits.
  • Improved Infrastructure – Some roads may benefit from designated parking areas, clear markings, or physical barriers like bollards to prevent vehicles from mounting pavements.
  • Community Engagement – Encouraging residents to report persistent problems can help the council identify hotspots and prioritise action.

A Call for Common Sense and Respect

Ultimately, this is an issue of respect—respect for fellow residents, for the integrity of our town’s streets, and for the safety of those who walk them. We all have a role to play in making Grantham a safer, more accessible place for everyone. By working together, we can find solutions that balance the need for parking with the rights of pedestrians and the preservation of our environment.