The Government has launched a consultation on private parking facilities, to help shape a new Code of Practice, after the previous 2019 Code failed to be implemented.
The consultation aims to collect views from car park users, parking industry professionals, debt collection businesses, landowners, and groups who represent driver interests.
Simon Williams, head of policy at the RAC said: “We desperately need a government-backed private parking code of practice to be brought into force to protect drivers.
“But it’s important to realise this latest consultation is only happening because the industry successfully prevented the code being put in place after an Act of Parliament was passed six years ago.
“We must now ensure that whatever the Government introduces has sufficient teeth to make a real difference to drivers.”
The consultation follows a record year for fines issued by private parking companies.
The consultation is open to the public until 5th September 2025.
Williams said: “We urge every driver who has been issued a parking charge notice that they didn’t feel was fair to share their views on the consultation.
“We will be making our opinions clear in our response as we continue to fight for better private parking practices.”
Alex Norris MP, Minister for Building Safety, Fire and Local Growth, said: “The UK private parking industry plays an important role in supporting our local economies and high streets.
“But we continue to hear reports of poor behaviour by parking operators that make it difficult for motorists to comply with the terms and conditions of parking and leave them open to parking charges and escalating costs.
“These operators tarnish the reputation of those in the industry who strive to provide quality parking facilities and services.
“That’s bad for motorists, industry and the economy. And it’s bad for growth.
“There is considerable evidence that the public want transparency, and they want to see parking operators who engage in poor practices held to account.”
