New parking rules in England mean drivers can ‘escape’ £100 fines

Parking law changes are being rolled out within months and will protect motorists, drivers and road users from unfair fines at a “crucial stage”. The new Parking Code of Practice will be launched in October and will see a number of changes to UK roads and car parks.

The new parking rules will give drivers a 10-minute grace period before being fined under an agreement from the British Parking Association and the International Parking Community. It will help the 35,000 drivers who face fines “every day” to avoid a charge.

Each ticket can cost up to £100 for parking fines. Simon Williams, head of policy at the RAC, said: “We are stunned that the BPA and IPC have suddenly announced plans to introduce their own ‘private parking code’ after doing everything they could in recent five years to prevent the official government. Code created by an Act of Parliament coming into force.

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“Nothing should stand in the way of the Official Code, let alone a new industry scheme that muddies the waters and risks confusing drivers.” Andrew Pester, chief executive of the BPA, said: “We are delighted to introduce a single Code of Practice to the private parking sector.

“This is a crucial milestone as we work closely with the Government, consumer bodies and others to deliver fairer and more consistent parking standards for drivers.” Private car parks will have until 2026 to bring their signage and other procedures in line with the new rules, however all new locations established from October will have to comply with the list of requirements.

The parking association’s new set of rules is said to implement “key elements” of the government’s original plan, with a commitment to update and maintain the code over time. Those who do not comply risk expulsion from the BPA, they have also been warned.