Pavement parking crackdown could be coming to Northampton under new council proposals
Drivers could face new restrictions on pavement parking in Northampton as part of plans being explored by West Northamptonshire Council.
The authority is considering identifying streets where parking on pavements could be restricted, amid concerns that pedestrians are being forced into roads to get around parked vehicles.
The proposals are outlined in the council's draft Road Safety Strategy, which is currently out for public consultation.
According to the document, pavement parking is a concern for residents across West Northamptonshire, particularly people using wheelchairs and other mobility aids.
The council warns that vehicles obstructing pavements can force pedestrians into the carriageway, potentially putting them at risk.
It says legislation included in the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill in April 2026 would enable local leaders to prohibit pavement parking.
Further guidance from the Department for Transport is expected later this year.
The council has committed to reviewing that guidance, identifying potential areas for restrictions and exploring how any new rules could be enforced.
However, no specific streets have been identified, and the proposals do not amount to an immediate blanket ban on pavement parking.
The measures form part of a wider strategy aimed at reducing road deaths and serious injuries across West Northamptonshire by 2045.
Council figures reveal that 134 people were killed or seriously injured on local roads during 2025.
Councillor Richard Butler, cabinet member for highways and transport, said: “Everyone should be able to travel safely, no matter how they choose to do it.
“Too many people are still being killed or seriously injured on our roads. We want to do everything we can to prevent that from happening.”
The council is also considering improvements to pedestrian crossings, school safety and speed management.
Residents are being encouraged to comment on the draft strategy before the consultation closes on December 6, 2026.
Councillor Butler added: “Your views will help us shape the final plan, so I would urge everyone to take part in the consultation.”
A virtual drop-in session will take place on November 23, from 10am to 11.30am, allowing residents to ask questions about the proposals.
The final strategy is expected to go before the council's cabinet in spring 2027.