property access

[halliwell]

I live at the end of a narrow street with houses on one side and trees on the other. The road is only wide enough for one car to pass (possibly two smaller models but only just). My next door neighbour as two cars on her driveway however when she has company they park in the middle of the street blocking us into or out of our property. As we only have a small car we often try to squeeze past however this is not always an option and we often have to ask them to move. This has been going on for two years now and we often get made to wait before they will let us in or out. They continue to block access to our property have have started swearing to us if we ask them to move. I am aware that access must be provided for emergency services but is there a rule that could stop them blocking us out of our own house?

[Buenchico]

I assume that it's a public (rather than private) road.

It's an offence, under Section of 137 of the Highways Act 1980 to wilfully obstruct any highway.

More specifically, it's also an offence, under Regulation 103 of the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986 for anyone to cause or permit a vehicle to stand on a road so as to cause an unnecessary obstruction.

Speak to your local community constable. He (or she) will probably be happy to 'have a quiet word' with your neighbours.

Chris

[halliwell]

Thanks for your reply Chris it was very helpful