New UK parking rules could see huge reduction in fines being dished out

11 June 2024 , 11:53

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A mandatory 10-minute grace period for drivers is set to be introduced (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Motorists across the nation could soon breathe a sigh of relief thanks to a new car parking loophole that might save them from hefty fines.

With a fresh Code of Practice on the horizon, it's set to introduce a slew of updated driving regulations aimed at boosting standards and ensuring uniformity for drivers. The forthcoming Code of Practice is poised to implement a mandatory 10-minute grace period for drivers, which means those who overshoot their parking tickets by mere seconds won't be hit with penalties.

Will Hurley, the chief executive officer of the International Parking Community, said: "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."

Citizens Advice also offers guidance on its website, stating: "It's worth appealing if you were only 5 or 10 minutes late. You should be given a few minutes after your parking runs out called a 'grace period'. ATA members must give you an extra 10 minutes before giving you a Parking Charge Notice as should the council before giving you a Penalty Charge Notice.

"You should also be given a reasonable amount of time to leave a car park if you decide not to park. A parking company might disagree with your appeal if they time your stay from the moment you entered the car park, rather than from when you parked.

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"It's still worth appealing because it's free to informally appeal and you have to do this before you can appeal to an independent tribunal or trade association."

A Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) or an Excess Charge Notice (ECN) is typically handed out by the council on public land, like a high street or council car park, reports Birmingham Live. Meanwhile, a Parking Charge Notice is given by a landowner or parking company on private land, such as a supermarket car park.

On red routes, white zig zags or where the police manage parking, a Fixed Penalty Notice is issued by the police.

Rom Preston-Ellis