New 'car park loophole' which could save drivers from being hit by £100 fine

New parking rules are coming into place

A new loophole has been introduced this month that could save drivers from a £100 fine when parking in private and council car parks that are members of the British Parking Association (BPA) scheme.

The BPA has rolled out a series of new rules governing its car parks and how parking wardens operate, set to take effect in October. The new Code of Practice includes several new regulations, such as a 10-minute 'grace period' before a fine is issued. A new 'Appeals Charter' will also provide a 'clear way' for motorists to contest an unfair or incorrect parking fine.

Members of the BPA include NCP and hundreds of other organisations across the UK, including several local council car parks like those in Manchester, Buckinghamshire, Cardiff, Edinburgh and the City of Westminster. As part of these new rules, a loophole has been created that could help you avoid a parking ticket in BPA member car parks.

The full changes stipulate that car parks "Require clear signage to help motorists navigate parking on private land." Clear signage is likely to be found in NCP car parks and various others like Cleanpark UK, Debit My Mobile and local councils. However, it's still listed as a requirement under the new BPA rules, along with the 10-minute grace period, reports the Express.

The complete new sector single Code states: Introduces an Appeals Charter, creating clear parameters for motorists to appeal against a parking charge. The proposed changes will secure a cap on parking charges, fixed at £100, which will be reduced to £60 if the fee is settled within 14 days. In addition, a grace period of 10 minutes would be mandatory for drivers.

Uniform rules across private parking operators, clear signage, and special considerations to safeguard society's most vulnerable have also formed part of the revamped directive.

Andrew Pester, the CEO of the British Parking Association said: "We are delighted to release a single sector Code across our private parking sector. This is a key 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."

IPC chief executive officer Will Hurley said: "This new Code will create positive change across the UK, enhancing the protection of the most vulnerable in society, whilst creating consistency and clarity for motorists and continuing to elevate standards across the sector."