New rules blocking drivers from parking on the pavement have been heralded by experts, who argue that the changes will provide a huge benefit for those with sight issues.
The English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill received Royal Assent earlier this week following long discussions and amendments.
The main aim of the Act is to launch new measures to expand devolution powers for mayors, as well as a Community Right to Buy scheme.
It also included fresh powers for local transport authorities to crack down on "dangerous" pavement parking through fixed penalty notices.
The new regulations follow a years-long process to ban pavement parking, which had been subject to a consultation in 2020 under the previous Conservative Government.
Under new regulations launched by the Government, cars will be banned from parking on the pavement across England.
Local leaders will be given new and improved legal powers to crack down on pavement parking, replacing the older system that was criticised for being a "lengthy, complex process".
The Department for Transport outlined that local leaders would be able to choose which roads are included under the scope of the ban on pavement parking.
Labour has announced a crackdown on pavement parking across England | GETTYSpeaking in January, Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood said the rules were critical for parents with pushchairs, those in wheelchairs and anyone who is blind or partially sighted.
Reaction to the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill has been largely complimentary, especially from charities and organisations representing people most likely to be affected by pavement parking.
Chris Theobald, Senior Policy, Public Affairs and Campaigns Manager at Guide Dogs, said the organisation was "delighted" that the new rules were being introduced following "decades of campaigning".
He said: "We welcome the Government's swift action to prioritise pedestrian safety following the announcement in January that local authorities will be empowered to manage pavement parking in line with the needs of their communities.
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Drivers can be fined £100 for pavement parking
| GETTY"We are looking forward to working with the Government and councils on developing the details of the rules.
"It's essential these are developed and enforced quickly to ensure that everyone can get from A to B without being stopped or forced into the road."
The English Devolution Bill will also introduce new licensing powers for rental electric bikes, allowing local authorities to set requirements for parking, safety and accessibility.
Restrictions on pavement parking have become an important topic in recent years following the decision by the Scottish Government to ban the practice.
Scotland announced a crackdown on pavement parking in 2023 as part of the Transport (Scotland) Act 2019
| FIFE COUNCILThrough the Transport (Scotland) Act 2019, cars are banned from pavement parking, double parking and parking at dropped kerbs across the country.
The rules, which were officially introduced in December 2023, gave local authorities the power to enforce the law and issue fines worth £100, although these would be reduced to £50 if paid within 14 days.
As part of the rollout of the new rules, Transport Scotland launched a public information campaign to make drivers aware of the rules, including radio, outdoor and social media advertising.
Transport Minister Fiona Hyslop emphasised that the Government was "clear" in restricting drivers from parking in an inconsiderate manner to the detriment of other road users and pedestrians.