IRRESPONSIBLE drivers are being targeted as part of Wirral Council clampdown.

Motorists who park across driveways or on other dropped areas of pavement, could face the same penalty charge notices as so-called 'dozy parkers' who park on double yellow lines.

Local authorities have had the powers to issue the notices on irresponsible drivers since last year under the Traffic Management Act 2004.

But these extended enforcement powers help councils to ensure a safer environment for all road users and make a contribution to traffic management and congestion management.

Residents who are prevented from getting in and out of their driveways by a parked car are often forced to ask the council to take action.

It is feared that vehicles parked on dropped kerbs which are are usually accompanied by tactile paving would prevent blind people from crossing a road safely.

Cllr Lesley Rennie, Wirral Council cabinet member for streetscene and transport services, said: "Parking where the pavement has been dropped might seem like an innocuous, harmless thing for drivers to do, but it is actually quite irresponsible. These areas of kerb are there for a good reason and it is right that parking there should be considered as unacceptable as parking on a double yellow line or not paying in a pay and display car park."

If a motorist is found to be parked irresponsibly over a section of dropped kerb, they could face a penalty charge notice which carries a fine of £70.