NORTH Wiltshire MP James Gray has called for the end of unsafe pavement parking after he heard about the difficulties guide dog owners face when they are forced to walk in the road.

Mr Gray, who attend a Guide Dogs event at the House of Commons last Monday (July 3), wants the Government to do more to combat pavement parking in order to protect the lives of people with visual impairments, parents with pushchairs and disabled people.

He said:“No one should be forced to brave traffic due to cars parked on the pavement. I’m calling on the Government to end pavement parking across the country. Blind and partially sighted people should be able to walk down streets without fear.”

James White, senior campaigns manager at Guide Dogs, added: “Pavement parked cars can turn the walk to work or trip to the shops into a dangerous obstacle course. It’s a nuisance for anyone, but if you have a visual impairment or a toddler in tow, stepping out into the road with moving traffic is just too big a risk.

"Our research shows that most drivers who park on the pavement know that it can be dangerous for pedestrians, but many do so regardless. That’s why we need clear rules so that drivers only park where it’s safe.

"Back in 2015, we were encouraged when the Government committed to find a solution to this problem. We hope that they will now follow up with a law to curb unsafe pavement parking.”