Pembrokeshire County Council is to get tough on inconsiderate parkers.

Over the coming weeks, the council's parking services team will be on the look-out for motorists, who park illegally across drop kerbs or who park on pavements.

Designated pedestrian drop kerbs are designed to ease access for disabled people - such as blind people and wheelchair users. They are also helpful to parents with pushchairs.

Motorists spotted parking in such a way as to block access to dropped kerbs could find themselves subject to a penalty charge notice.

"Many disabled people such as blind and visually impaired people and wheelchair users rely on drop kerbs to get on and off the pavement when visiting shops and town centres," said Clr. Rob Lewis, cabinet member for highways and planning.

"When inconsiderate motorists obstruct drop kerbs it can be impossible for some disabled people to get to the shops and get back home again. Parkers need to think about where they are parking and be considerate towards others."

Henry Langen, chair of the Pembrokeshire Access Group, said motorists parking over drop kerbs was one of the single largest obstacles an impaired or wheelchair user came across while out and about.

"I am frequently met with hostility when asking a motorist or delivery van to give me access to the kerb," he said.

"Often I am asked to wait while they finish loading. If I challenge their right to continue, I am met by a barrage of insults and oaths. The law needs to become a lot more strict."

Another inconsiderate practice causing concern is that of parking wholly or partly on the pavement.

A recent poll commissioned by Guide Dogs showed that most drivers in the UK admit to doing this, yet nearly half hadn't thought about the possible problems they cause to blind or partially sighted people.

Andrea Gordon, engagement manager for Guide Dogs Cymru, said that cars parked on pavements were an everyday nightmare for blind and partially sighted people, as well as other vulnerable pedestrians.

"Imagine how terrifying it is to step into a road when you can't see oncoming traffic," she said.

"Too often people with sight loss are forced out into busy roads because an inconsiderate motorist has blocked the pavement. It's an unwanted barrier to the freedom and independence a guide dog brings."

If you would like more information on your rights as a disabled person or advice on how to make your business more accessible please contact the access officer at Pembrokeshire County Council.