The newly established Panel is set to oversee the UK’s private parking Sector Single Code of Practice.
A key priority will be to urgently review the recent media case where a motorist was being taken to court after taking longer than 5 minutes to pay for parking, this has been dubbed the five minute payment rule.
The Private Parking Scrutiny and Advice Panel (PPSAP) will provide an impartial oversight mechanism to ensure the Code raises standards for consumers. It will also fast-track updates to the Code to reflect technological advancements and better protect consumers.
The panel’s first major action will be a revision to the Code that protects genuine motorists who have difficulty making prompt payment on entry. This urgent reform is aimed at ensuring fairness for motorists and will come into effect by February 2025.
Will Hurley, CEO of the International Parking Community, emphasized the significance of this move: “The creation of the Panel shows the commitment the industry has to improving the reputation of our sector. We must not forget the valuable service we provide to ensure the vast majority of people can park when and where they need to.”
