Pavement parking slammed by wheelchair user

A woman says she is forced "almost every day" to take her wheelchair on to busy roads because of the number of cars parking on pavements near where she lives.

Caroline Lewis, from Market Drayton in Shropshire, said "people don't care any more" about how and where they park.

It is not illegal to park on pavements in the county, but there can be hefty fines for those causing an unnecessary obstruction.

Lewis, 63, who began using a wheelchair following a crash involving a lorry, said people were "thoughtless" and should be more considerate of those "who aren't on two feet".

"I have got to question why nothing's been done about it," she said.

Longlands Lane and Stafford Street have been identified as particular hotspots.

West Mercia Police said it encouraged residents "to report incidents where they suspect a crime had taken place".

Rules for parking on pavements vary across the county.

In the Shropshire Council area, it is not illegal to park on the path but "where civil parking restrictions apply, civil enforcement officers can take action".

"Where a vehicle is causing a dangerous or unnecessary obstruction, this may be a matter for the police," the rules add.

The authority said: "We understand the concerns raised about pavement condition and dropped kerbs, and will look into any specific issues reported to us, including the route between Longlands Lane and Stafford Street in Market Drayton."

Meanwhile, Telford and Wrekin Council is one of five authorities in the West Midlands that allow drivers to park on pavements.

In June, the council said: "We are committed to using every enforcement tool and legal power available to us where vehicles are causing obstruction, creating safety concerns or contravening existing restrictions."

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