THE perennial problem of pavement parking in the village of Penparc is again back in the spotlight after recurring issues in the community.

Cllr Clive Davies is leading a renewed campaign to remind motorists that such parking causes problems for fellow residents.

“Parking on pavements is a repeated issue and not always necessary,” he told the Tivy-Side.

Having received correspondence from residents with mobility issues raising concerns, Cllr Davies - Ceredigion County Councillor for Ferwig and Aberporth - teamed up with PCSO Matthew Kieboom to carry out a door-to-door campaign reminding residents to think about others when parking on the streets.

“We had 100 per cent support from the community in Penparc during the campaign,” said Cllr Davies.

“Basically, the message was to think of others who either have young children and/or mobility issues in the village when parking.

“I’d like to thank Matthew who joined me in having a catch-up with Penparc residents.

“There is no specific offence of parking on pavements, although the police can enforce the existing criminal offence of causing ‘unnecessary obstruction of any part of the highway’.”

Cllr Davies added that The Welsh Pavement Parking Taskforce, an independent panel set up by the Welsh Government, had previously rejected the outright ban on pavement parking being actively pursued in Scotland.

The UK Government has recently begun to consult on a way to tackle the problem in England.

“A recent survey found that 83 per cent of people in Wales view pavement parking as a real problem,” said Clllr Davies.

“All ten recommendations of the Welsh Pavement Parking Taskforce have been accepted by the Welsh Government which includes additional legislative powers for pavement parking.

“The panel also considered the 20 mph local speed limits.

“The Senedd backed proposals for a 20mph default speed limit in residential areas, which the Welsh Government intends to put in force in 2023.”

Matthew Kieboom said it was always preferable to initially speak to people to try and resolve an issue.

“It was good to catch up with residents I haven't spoken to in a long time,” he added.