'Pavement surfing' fines issued halved in 10 years

The number of fines given to motorists for driving and parking on footpaths in Guernsey has more than halved over the last decade, according to States figures.

A Freedom of Information (FOI) request made by the BBC asked for the number of fixed-penalty notices issued for 'pavement surfing' - the colloquial term for the illegal use of the pavement by drivers on the island's narrow roads.

The figures showed there were 1,780 penalties issued between 2014 and March 2025 with the number generally declining in that period with 440 fines issued in 2014 compared to 140 in 2024.

Bailiwick Law Enforcement was asked to comment on the figures.

Guernsey's government was also asked for the number of those prosecuted in court and the location where the offences occurred.

The States said there were 33 successful prosecutions between 2016 and 2024 - but the list did not include the numbers of those cautioned, those who had their cases withdrawn or those who also committed more serious offences at the same time.

The hotspots for all incidents between 2014 and March 2025 included: Havilland Street with 231, Mount Durand with 124 and Rocquettes Lane with 96.

Road Safety campaigner Rob Gregson of Living Streets Guernsey believes more should be done to target offenders.

He said he was "absolutely convinced" the issue was "underreported" and called for more ways for road users to report concerns.

Mr Gregson said this could include a "website where you could easily note your location and what happened to help document problem areas."

The police warned islanders earlier this year while "pavement surfing remains a contentious issue in Guernsey, the bottom line is that it is illegal" and could lead to a £65 fine.

"Cruising along the pavement at speed puts pedestrians at serious risk, and makes exiting a driveway very dangerous," the force said.

It stressed "the law only allows exceptions for passing obstructions in the road" and when this occurs manoeuvres must be carried out safely.

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