Devon residents told not to park on pavements outside their homes

Devon residents have been warned of the hazards parking their cars on the pavements outside their homes can cause. Police officers from Kingsbridge Police have put out a reminder out to residents that the pavements are "for people, not cars".

Green Park Way in Kingsbridge was patrolled this morning by local officers who photographed three vehicles parked on the pavement. Parking on the pavement can cause a hazard for pedestrians, particularly children, wheelchair and pushchair users as parked vehicles can force them onto the road, putting them at risk from traffic.

In a post to social media, Kingsbridge Police wrote: “Kingsbridge Neighbourhood Team have been out and about this morning. Residents have raised concerns re parking in Green Park Way, Chillington.

Read more:

• Devon dad with 'heart of gold' died in drink drive crash
• Devon mum gives birth in Tesco supermarket

“Police would like to remind motorists that pavements are for people, not cars. Parking on pavements contravenes a number of rules, including causing an unnecessary obstruction.

“We appreciate there is construction work taking place in the area, if you are working in the area please park responsibly and keep the pavements clear for pedestrians.”

The post has gained the attention of locals, most of whom support the message. One person, an owner of one of the vehicles pictured, has explained why they parked on the pavement. As mentioned by police, there is construction work ongoing in the area, which has left little option for residents looking to park when they return home.

The local wrote in their defence: "Can I just say that one of these vans is mine and we have been parking like that because of all of the site traffic going in and out of the building site opposite , some days there are vans parked on the other side of the road also and the lorries cannot get by!".

According to Devon County Council, parking on pavements is generally illegal and motorists can be fined up to £1,000 if they are witnessed to do so by police. The police can also issue parking tickets for people caught driving on a pavement, parking across a drop kerb or causing obstruction.

They also add: “Pavements aren’t designed to carry the weight of a vehicle: parking on pavements causes damage which could result in an injury to someone else and adds to our maintenance costs.”