PRIVATE car parks have managed to escape statutory regulation for far too long – but that’s about to change.
This is a significant business sector with operators managing car parks for supermarkets, retail shopping centres and fast-food outlets. Private companies issue five million parking notices to UK motorists every year.
The sector has enjoyed self-regulation with trade associations operating voluntary codes of practice and appeals. Typically, private parking charges are issued at £100, with a reduction to £60 if full payment is made within 14 days.
If a parking notice isn’t paid promptly many companies will add on £50 in “administration charges”, resulting in a total daily charge of £150. Motorists who are ticketed may have stayed a relatively short time over the free stay of one or two hours.