‘Millions of motorists’ could be affected by new car parking rule changes

The Government has admitted that ‘millions of motorists’ could be impacted by a new car parking law which could be introduced in months. However, the updates will be good news for drivers with vehicle owners set to hold onto more of their hard-earned cash. Plans are being drafted to tackle “unfair” fines with the current £100 fines set to be sliced to just £50. The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities has also revealed that debt recovery fees could also be scrapped. This could potentially save drivers up to £70 in another big win for road users. New parking laws may have an impact on ‘millions of motorists’ (Image: Getty) A draft impact assessment plan suggests the new plan will offer ‘wider indirect’ benefits to local businesses surrounding local car parks. Michael Gove, Levelling Up Secretary, claimed the new updates will ensure a ‘much fairer system’ for drivers across the country. He explained: ‘Millions of people across the country use private car parks and we want this to continue without them having the fear of being slapped with unfair and costly charges. ‘Our new Private Parking Code of Practice will put this right, delivering a much fairer system for drivers and industry – and today’s call for evidence is an important part of shaping this policy. I encourage everyone to come forward and have their say.’ Michael Gove feels the changes will stop drivers being hit with ‘unfair’ charges (Image: Getty) The new ideas will be debated as part of an eight-week consultation on the new Private Parking Code of Practice. Other concepts have also been listed including the introduction of a 40 percent discount if offenders pay within 14 days. Charges may also be set on a regional basis with slightly higher £80 fees for London and Scotland. Road users can have their say on the new plans until September 24, 2023. Another consultation is then planned to finalise rules before any new laws are passed. The Department has also promised drivers will be able to ‘easily challenge’ any unfair parking charges once the new Code comes into force. A new independent appeals services will come into force while all parking operators will be made to follow the new tougher guidelines. Dehenna Davison, Monster for Levelling Up said: ‘We all know how annoying parking can be – from driving around endlessly to being met with complicated signs and impossible terms and conditions. ‘It’s needlessly confusing, and that’s why we’re pushing ahead with the Private Parking Code of Practice to create a fairer system.’