BPA and IPC Take Lead – Private Parking Sector Single Code of Practice

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

For more information please contact the BPA press office – email: media@britishparking.co.uk

For the IPC -the IPC communications manager: Cat@theipc.info

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.