Heather learned about the problems pavement parking and street clutter causes for people with sight loss when she met the charity Guide Dogs recently.
“Every time I leave the house I leave with raised anxiety as I’m already thinking about what obstacles are going to be in our way.” Elaine, guide dog Inca
Cars blocking pavements are one of the main barriers preventing people with sight loss from walking the streets safely, and in some cases can force people onto the road. YouGov polling on behalf of the charity Guide Dogs found nearly three-quarters (72%) of people surveyed said pavement parking is common in their area. Pavement parking has largely been prohibited on pavements in London since 1974, and the charity is calling for the Government to extend this law across rest of England. They say a clear law is needed where pavement parking is the exception, not the norm, to ensure that everyone can walk their streets safely. Three quarters (74%) of councillors also support Guide Dogs’ call for a new law.
Heather Wheeler MP, who is supporting Guide Dogs’ campaign, said:
“It is really important that we are mindful of those with vision impairment when we park – whether it is a bike or a car. I am therefore supporting this Guide Dogs’ campaign. All it really is a little bit of extra care when we are using the public roadside. Actually, most people in South Derbyshire are aware of these issues – but we need everyone to pay attention.”
Eleanor Briggs, Head of Policy, Public Affairs and Campaigns at Guide Dogs said:
“The message from the public and local councillors is clear; our streets are not safe because of cars blocking pavements.
“Parking on pavements is a nuisance for everyone, but potentially dangerous if you are a wheelchair user forced onto the road, pushing a child in a buggy or have sight loss and can’t see traffic coming towards you.
“This daily threat can mean people can’t safely get to work, education or to see friends. This is why we’re calling for a law that would empower local councils to tackle this problem.”
