Pavement parking has emerged as a critical site of contestation, representing a growing dilemma in the design of places, amidst a challenging socio-political context. While a recent policy shift in England empowers councils to address the issue, effective responses remain constrained by a lack of data, evidence, and tools.

Framed within broader scholarship on mobility justice, this research investigates pavement parking within the South Yorkshire Combined Authority (SYMCA) geography, covering the four constituent Local Authority areas. The research team, led by CRESR, are analysing the issue across diverse urban contexts—ranging from short-term obstruction near schools and high streets to persistent, long-term parking in residential areas.

Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research combines structured pavement audits using a bespoke audit methodology, qualitative research on the lived experiences of residents, interviews with Local Authority officers, and GIS mapping. This allows us to draw insights into the spatial nature of obstructive parking and its impact at a time of increased interest in policy and planning responses.

A primary output will be a light-touch, scalable pavement parking audit methodology/tool. By identifying how environmental constraints—such as housing stock and trip generators—relate to obstruction, the tool will better enable evidence-informed responses. For example, influencing local planning policy, design standards, and decision-making within the planning and built environment professions more broadly.

This shifts the focus beyond enforcement towards more strategic planning, design and placemaking to foster accessible, inclusive design, and ensure that the needs of pedestrians are prioritised in shaping existing and future places.