The BPA (British Parking Association) and the IPC (International
Parking Community) have today announced a private parking sector
single Code of Practice to be used across the entire private
parking sector. The new single Code will raise standards
and deliver greater transparency and consistency for the benefit
of motorists.
The new single Code introduces an Appeals Charter, creating clear
and unvarying parameters for motorists to appeal against a
parking charge. The new single Code also ensures the protection
of the most vulnerable in society, with no decrease to the
deterrent for abuse of Blue Badge bays or those who choose to
park selfishly, putting their own convenience above the needs or
rights of others.
The new single Code also mandates a 10-minute grace period for
motorists, consistent rules for operators and requires clear
signage to help motorists navigate parking on private land.
Quotes:
Andrew Pester, BPA Chief Executive said, “We are delighted to
introduce a single Code of Practice across the private parking
sector. This is a crucial milestone as we work closely with
Government, consumer bodies and others to deliver fairer and more
consistent parking standards for motorists. We will continue to
push for a positive outcome for all.”
Will Hurley, Chief Executive Officer of the IPC said, “This is a
long-awaited day, the sector has been calling for a single Code
of Practice for a long time and today we are proud to be
committing to it.
The single Code will benefit all compliant motorists and will
present clear consequences for those who decide to break the
rules. The sector has listened to the motoring community and
today we are acting.”
Notes to editors
In February 2022 Government first introduced and subsequently
withdrew the Private Parking Code of Practice. We have been
working to create a single code that achieves the intentions of
government, while still functioning on a practical level in the
real world. The sector is still awaiting an updated version
of the Private Parking Code of Practice from Government.
However, the sector has united to ensure the key elements of the
Governments Code are implemented as soon as they can be. These
are the aspects which relate to the standards of those managing
private land.
Key Points:
The new code will be published in June 2024.
Code implementation Date: 1st October 2024 (with existing sites
expected to bring their signage, and be within full compliance by
late 2026.
Key changes for motorists:
- A
mandated10-minute grace period for motorists
-
Consistent signage standards
-
Single set of rules for all parking operators on private land
-
Appeals charter for those who receive parking charge with
mitigating circumstances
-
Oversight group: Ensuring that interpretation of the Code is
consistent. The aim is to give guidance and update the Code,
where necessary
-
Raising the bar for the sector: The objective of the Code
is to create consistency and elevated standards across the entire
sector, creating increased fairness and transparency for
motorists.
Moving forwards
The IPC and BPA are committed to continue to work together to
achieve the following;
- Update and maintain the Code.
- Provide guidance on the Code interpretation.
- Maintain a consistent sanction scheme
- Create more consistent second stage appeals process.
Private Parking Trade Associations:
1) The
International Parking Community (IPC) is DVLA Accredited Trade
Association (ATA), representing the private parking industry. Our
priority is to maintain high standards and conduct within the
private parking sector. We ensure our members can manage
sites in an effective way, whilst making the terms clear for
motorists. This ensures motorists can park where they need
to when accessing the NHS, local high street and other
facilities. We also ensure motorists are given the opportunity to
appeal, should they feel a parking charge has been issued in
error.
2) The British
Parking Association (BPA) is a not-for-profit membership
association representing the UK's parking and mobility sector. We
provide a leading membership community to support parking and
traffic management professionals to deliver the highest quality
services that benefits society and the environment. We represent
over 800 corporate members including local government, commercial
providers, parking system operators, consultants, and academics.
In addition, we have a separate membership structure for over 650
individuals and a range of benefits to support their professional
development. Our Vision is for a diverse and inclusive
membership community that supports a parking and travel
experience that exceeds expectations.
