New research by the British Parking Association (BPA) has revealed a consensus among UK local authorities to review and raise parking penalty charges to make them a more effective deterrent.
According to the BPA, councils also want greater consistency between the level of parking penalty charges in London and those outside the capital, including other major cities and urban areas.
Of those surveyed by the BPA, some 91% of local authorities agree that the current penalty charge level outside of London is not high enough, to deter or discourage irresponsible rule-breaking, especially where parking is not allowed.
Meanwhile, 69% believe that penalty charges outside of London should mirror those inside London.
Furthermore, 95% of respondents agree that the Scottish government is right to review and increase its penalty charge level, and that a similar increase is required in England and Wales.
According to the research, this would encourage better compliance with parking rules and support transport plans including active travel.
Separate data from a leading car park operator reportedly found that a proposed reduction of the parking charge level in the private sector would lead to an insufficient deterrent.
This is expected to result in an increase in rule breaches and more parking charge notices being issued in privately operated car parks.
Andrew Pester, chief executive, BPA, said: “The findings of this survey reinforces the urgent need to review and raise penalty charges everywhere to encourage compliance with the parking rules.
“We will continue to work closely with government as well as calling for effective deterrents to inconsiderate parking both on public roads and in private car parks.”
