Motorists have been warned Falkirk Council has begun enforcing a new pavement parking ban across the region for drivers who park illegally.New UK parking rules start today with drivers at risk of £100 fineNew UK parking rules start today with drivers at risk of £100 fine

Drivers are set to be hit with £100 fines under new traffic rules which take effect on Monday. Motorists have been warned Falkirk Council has begun enforcing a new pavement parking ban across the region for drivers who park illegally.

The new rules follow recent legislation introduced in 2019 and again in 2023. Under the new regulations for road users, motorists are told will be illegal to park on pavements.

It will also be illegal to park on low verges adjacent to roads, in a way that blocks dropped kerbs, or to double park. The effort of the new rules is to protect those north of the border with sensory impairments, mobility issues, wheelchair users and families with prams or buggies.

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Council Leader Cecil Meiklejohn said: “Our pavements are vital pathways for pedestrians, especially those with mobility challenges and visual impairments. It’s important that motorists park considerately to ensure safe access for everyone.

“Last year, we started issuing advisory notices to help people understand the change. But enforcement is now necessary to protect pedestrians and improve safety across our communities.”

Allan McBride, from Falkirk, explained that as someone who is severely sight impaired, “I often plan my routes in advance to navigate public spaces safely”.

“Parked cars on pavements can disrupt these plans, making it harder to get around and requiring me to step onto the road,” he stated.

Mr McBride detailed how small changes like keeping pavements “clear can really help make public spaces more accessible”.

The roads being considered for exemptions include:

Netherby Road, Airth

Hareburn Avenue, Avonbridge

Glenview Avenue, Banknock

Hillhead Avenue, Banknock

Linden Drive, Banknock

Bridgeness Lane, Bo’ness

School Brae, Bo’ness

Skene Street, Bonnybridge

Gorrie Street, Denny

Arnothill Gardens, Falkirk

Campfield Street, Falkirk

Russel Street, Falkirk

Abbotsford Drive, Grangemouth

Bearcroft Gardens, Grangemouth

Maryflats Place, Grangemouth

John Street, Haggs

Forgie Crescent, Maddiston

Torosay Avenue, Maddiston

Steps Street, Stenhousemuir

Waverly Road, Stenhousemuir

Hookney Terrace, Stoneywood