Overview

• Speaking on behalf of the Transport Secretary, Simon Lightwood told MPs the Department for Transport is working through policy options and will publish next steps as soon as possible.
• The Department said it will aim to publish within 12 weeks of agreeing final outputs under Government Social Research protocols.
• Cross-party MPs and disability campaigners are urging action to protect people forced off footways, with calls for a national ban gaining momentum.
• Enforcement remains uneven: London already prohibits pavement parking, Scotland is issuing £100 penalties reduced to £50 for early payment, and most of England relies on Traffic Regulation Orders or police action for obstruction.
• Local reports highlight practical hurdles such as narrow streets, possible exemptions, signage requirements, and stretched council resources, with a Birmingham case underscoring confusion over who can enforce.