Surrey Council Take Action To Tackle Delivery Drivers

Residents’ Association and Independents Group Councillor Steven McCormick’s Motion to tackle the problem of delivery drivers mounting and parking on the pavement was successfully passed at today’s Full Council meeting. Cllr McCormick raised the issue following the concerns raised by residents and pedestrians in High Street, Epsom, where up to 20 mopeds and cycles are frequently parked on the pavement during peak times.

The Motion highlighted the growing problem caused by mopeds and cycles collecting food from takeaway outlets and delivering to customers. While the service responds to customer demand, and supports the local economy, it can lead to inconsiderate and sometimes dangerous parking on pavements, posing dangers to pedestrians and shoppers.

Cllr McCormick’s Motion requested that Surrey County Council:

• Write to delivery companies to highlight the issue of motorcycle delivery parking on pavements, and request information regarding the training given to riders

• Request a round table with delivery companies and Surrey Police to discuss guidelines with delivery riders

• Work closely with Surrey Police, as the enforcement authority, to tackle key areas where the issue occurs, and educate drivers on appropriate behaviour

The Motion received cross party support and was carried unanimously.

Cllr McCormick said, “This Motion is the first step in tackling the concerning rise in dangerous parking and driving caused by delivery riders. I am pleased that Surrey County Council has unanimously agreed this timely Motion and look forward to working collaboratively with all members to achieve a positive outcome.”

Also at the meeting, Residents’ Association and Independents Group Councillor Andy Macleod raised a question around the worrying rise in pavement parking, putting pressure on Surrey County Council to agree a ban similar to the measure coming into force in Swindon in the Autumn. While SCC do not have plans for a ban in place, Cabinet Member Cllr Matt Furniss agreed to write to the Department for Transport in order to ‘get this one moving’. He also advised that Surrey County Council can implement localised bans, something the RA and Independent Group will follow up at the Communities, Environment and Highways Select Committee.

Link to meeting papers and video: Agenda for Council on Tuesday, 8 October 2024, 10.00 am – Surrey County Council (surreycc.gov.uk)