Police have urged drivers to ‘be careful where they park’ after finding a van blocking a pavement, a shop doorway, and a pedestrian crossing in Bury – locals say it is a growing problem
A van driver has been branded as ‘the most inconsiderate parker’ police have ever seen after their vehicle was found almost completely blocking a pavement, a shop doorway, and a pedestrian crossing.
Greater Manchester Police shared an image of the Mercedes van wedged between a line of shops and the footpath railings in Bury. Officers issued a traffic offence report, and the driver was instructed to move the van. The force said on Facebook: “The town centre neighbourhood team have been focusing on traffic offences being committed by road users around the town centre and outskirts today; we’ve engaged with and stopped multiple drivers with some receiving tickets for their actions.
“One of note was this van parked on Walmersley Road, not only was it obstructing the footpath entirely they also decided to park within the limits of a pedestrian crossing, the driver of this vehicle was issued with a ticket and had to move his van!” It added: “We ask that drivers are careful with where they park, the white zig-zag lines at pedestrian crossings are there to ensure nobody parks in a way that can limit visibility of pedestrians at the crossing.”
Manchester Evening News has named it the “most inconsiderate parking job Greater Manchester has ever seen”, while some locals have claimed it is just one example of a much wider problem in the area. One wrote: “Hate driving up that road. I avoid it as much as I can.”
Another described the van driver’s actions as “selfish”, while someone else said: “See it everyday in Ladybarn.” A different resident lamented: “It’s the norm.” Others called for tougher punishments to crack down on the behaviour, and one commented: “If you block the entire pavement you should get a fine. Nobody should have to walk on the road because vehicles have parked on the pavement.”
According to official police advice, reports of inconsiderate parking should be reported in the first instance to your local council, who will be able to take action through their enforcement team. However, cars parked on zig zag lines, in a dangerous position or in a way that would prevent access to emergency vehicles can be reported to police, either by calling 101 or online.