The government has initiated a consultation regarding a new code of practice designed to prevent private car park operators from “unfairly penalising” motorists.
This action follows concerns voiced by drivers, including Rosey Hudson, who faced a £1,906 charge for exceeding the payment time by five minutes in a Derby car park.
According to the government, the proposed Private Parking Code of Practice “aims to establish a fairer and more transparent private parking system.”
The British Parking Association, a key trade association overseeing the industry, has pledged to collaborate closely with the government throughout the consultation process.
Local Growth Minister Alex Norris, representing Nottingham North and Kimberley, stated: “Parking is an essential part of daily life, from shopping locally to visiting hospitals. However, too many individuals are being subjected to unfair penalties.”
“Our code will address misleading tactics and confusing procedures, providing crucial oversight and transparency to enhance standards across the board.”
A previous code of practice, published in February 2022 by the then-government, was scheduled for implementation by the end of 2023.
However, it was withdrawn due to legal challenges from several parking companies.
Consequently, the private parking sector has been operating under self-regulation, overseen by two accredited trade associations: the British Parking Association (BPA) and the International Parking Community (IPC).
Car park operators affiliated with these associations are authorized to obtain driver information from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) and issue parking charge notices (PCNs) for alleged breaches of terms and conditions.
This has resulted in drivers facing demands for hundreds, and in some cases thousands, of pounds for minor infractions such as payment delays or incorrect vehicle registration input.
The government’s proposed measures aim to prevent charges arising from payment machine malfunctions, accidental typos, or poor mobile signal.
However, the AA believes that the government’s proposals do not go far enough.
Jack Cousens, Head of Roads Policy at the AA, commented: “This long-awaited consultation will not satisfy drivers and suggests that the government is yielding to the private parking industry.”
His concerns include the proposed £100 cap on parking charges, which exceeds the previously suggested £50 limit.
“We urge all drivers to participate in the consultation and share their experiences with private parking firms,” he added.
“If the government understands the deep dissatisfaction drivers hold towards some of these unscrupulous businesses, it may take further action to protect innocent drivers.”
DVLA statistics indicate a rise in PCNs issued by private car park operators.
In the last financial year, they requested 12.8 million keeper details from the DVLA, marking a 673% increase since 2012.
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government acknowledged that “while this partly reflects an increase in parking spaces, the current system lacks independent oversight and sufficient transparency.”
“Currently, operators can evade sanctions for poor practices, leaving motorists vulnerable to unfair or incorrect charges. The new compliance framework aims to ensure accountability.”
Under the proposals, operators who violate the code may lose their access to driver information from the DVLA.
The eight-week consultation is scheduled to conclude on September 5, and the public is invited to share their views online.
The BPA has committed to working closely with the government throughout the consultation, emphasizing the need for “proper enforcement” within the new code.
“Without proper enforcement, parking quickly descends into chaos, with some individuals exploiting the system at the expense of others,” the BPA stated.
“Misuse of parking spaces often disadvantages those who need them most, such as disabled individuals, parents with young children, and local residents.”
“We believe that parking systems must strike a balance: they should discourage selfish and anti-social behavior while remaining fair, proportionate, and transparent.”
Follow BBC Derby on Facebook, on X, or on Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected] or via WhatsApp on 0808 100 2210.
Fears were raised Chaddesden Woods would be put at risk by the new Oakwood housing plan.
Derbyshire Police say a man in his 30s has been taken to hospital.
Derby City Council’s AI helper Darcie has not been able to pick up words such as “mardy” and “duck”.
A proposal to enable a regional mayor to oversee 999 services is among new devolution measures.
Locals say dust from a nearby development has left them concerned about their health.