Clamp down on rogue parking firms

A new Parking Code of Practice and Framework could be introduced to challenge rogue firms and restore common sense to the way fines are issued.

The initiative, which is out of public consultation, includes a new appeals charter, a 10-minute grace period, and a tiered system of fines intended to differentiate between minor and major offences and punish the worst offenders

Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick said: “It will put a stop once and for all to rogue parking firms using aggressive tactics and handing out unfair parking tickets with no right to appeal, while also boosting British high streets by making it easier for people to park near their local shops without being unfairly fined.

“Our proposals will restore common sense to the way parking fines are issued, while cracking down on the worst offenders who put other people in danger and hinder our emergency services from carrying out their duties.”

RAC head of roads policy, Nicholas Lyes said: “Research from the RAC suggests trust in private parking companies is at rock bottom, so there is little doubt about the need for reform.

“This single code of practice is a promising first step towards a fairer, more transparent system that will ultimately bring better standards for drivers using private car parks, and hopefully spell the end of the worst of the cowboy tactics employed by some operators.”

Meanwhile, the Department for Transport (DfT) is considering extending London’s ban on parking on pavements across England.