RESIDENTS could soon see safer, more accessible streets as new powers allow councils to crack down on pavement parking.

Dorset Council will be able to act where vehicles obstruct footways, helping protect pedestrians, older residents, parents with prams and those with disabilities.

David Sidwick, Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, welcomed the announcement, highlighting the impact of inconsiderate parking in the county.

“As we have seen over the years in parts of Dorset, inconsiderate and unsafe parking can have a significant and harmful impact on local communities, restricting access for all – including emergency vehicles – and putting pedestrians at risk.

“These new powers will enable councils to take decisive and proportionate action where pavement parking causes real problems, helping to protect communities, improve accessibility and make neighbourhoods safer and more inclusive for everyone.”

Dorset PCC David Sidwick

The changes, announced by the Department for Transport earlier this month and due to be implemented later this year, allow councils to enforce rules where pavement parking causes unnecessary obstruction without requiring additional traffic signs.

Until now, enforcement was limited to areas with specific parking restrictions, making action slow and inconsistent.

Pavement parking can create real risks for pedestrians, particularly those with mobility challenges or visual impairments, and can block vital access for emergency services.

The new powers aim to target the worst offenders while still allowing flexibility in cases where partial pavement parking is necessary to let larger vehicles pass.

With enforcement carried out at the discretion of council officers, Dorset communities could see more responsive action against vehicles that endanger pedestrians or block the public highway.

Mr Sidwick added: “Keeping Dorset’s streets safe and accessible for all is vital.”