INCONSIDERATE drivers are blocking the routes of disabled people after thousands of pounds was spent on improving paths.

A campaign has been launched targeting motorists who block dropped kerbs at crossing points.

Council officials and members of the Hartlepool Access Group have joined to raise awareness of the problems.

Hundreds of kerbs, which also make life easier for parents with prams and pushchairs, have been installed across the town.

But there are increasing fears that the investment is being wasted by the thoughtless behaviour of some drivers.

Frank Kozorowski, who is blind, said: "Inconsiderate parking is down to a sheer lack of thought, and very frustrating."

Phil Hepburn, Hartlepool Borough Council's parking services manager, said: "Most motorists do park legally and considerately, but there is a minority who do not seem to worry about the difficulties they cause for others when parking.

"I would ask those people to spare a thought for the blind person or person in a wheelchair who finds it impossible to get across the road because a vehicle is blocking their way.

"Such a situation is not only frustrating, it is also dangerous."

Linda Shields, who uses a wheelchair, said: "When you are in a wheelchair, you are about the same height as a car.

"If vehicles are parked either side of a dropped kerb, it is difficult for other motorists travelling along a road to see you as you try to cross.

"If you move to a point where there is no parked traffic, then you may have to drop down a higher kerb, and that could result in you falling out of your wheelchair."

Mr Hepburn added: "By highlighting this issue, we hope to encourage motorists to think carefully about where they park, but we want people to be in no doubt that we will take appropriate enforcement action where problems persist."