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Police warning after driver obstructs Harrogate pedestrian crossing

Friday, 29 August 2025 14:34

A Tesla driver's parking on Otley Road.

North Yorkshire Police has warned Harrogate residents the dangers of poor parking after approaching a Tesla driver yesterday (Thursday).

PC Michelle Telford, from the Harrogate Response team, discovered the white Tesla obstructing a pedestrian crossing on Otley Road.

The driver provided this excuse:

“I’ve parked like that so not to block the crossing.”

PC Telford disagreed that this was a suitable solution, and a Traffic Offence Report has been submitted.

She said:

“This is a timely reminder for drivers - it is an offence to park on or near the approach to a pedestrian crossing.

“This is clearly identified by the white zig-zag painted markings on all crossings and risks three penalty points on your licence and a fine.

“This area is used regularly by children and adults attending the park, tennis and squash courts in the local vicinity, along with the shops across the road and is a heavy footfall area.

“The protected parking on the approach to crossings provides a buffer space to make crossings safer and reduce the chances of collisions and individuals being injured or worse when crossing the road."

She added:

“Please respect these clearly marked zig-zags, otherwise you also risk getting points and a fine.

“Our officers regularly patrol these areas and will take action when required.”

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