The International Parking Community (IPC) and the British Parking Association (BPA) announced a new single Code of Practice to enhance standards, improve transparency, and create consistency across the private parking sector. This unified code, driven by industry bodies, aims to benefit motorists by raising the bar for private parking operators and providing clear guidelines for appeals and parking management.
Key highlights of the new single Code include:
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- An Appeals Charter, allowing motorists to appeal against parking charges within clear parameters.
- A mandated 10-minute grace period for parking, ensuring drivers aren’t penalized for brief delays.
- Clear and consistent rules for parking operators on private land, focusing on uniform signage and consistent enforcement.
- Protection for the most vulnerable in society, ensuring Blue Badge bays are respected, with no decrease in deterrents for those who abuse them.
Agena Group has played a significant role in developing the new single Code of Practice for the private parking sector. As an active participant and contributor, Agena worked closely with the International Parking Community (IPC) and the British Parking Association (BPA), providing industry insights and expertise. The group’s involvement ensured that the new code reflects practical realities and addresses key challenges faced by parking operators and motorists. Agena’s contributions have helped shape a code that aims to deliver greater transparency, consistency, and fairness for everyone involved in the private parking sector.
“At Agena Group, we see this new single Code of Practice as a game-changer for the private parking sector,” said Paul Dawson, CEO of Agena Group. “Our active participation in the development process reflects our commitment to fostering a more transparent and consistent environment for parking operators and motorists alike. We believe this new code will set a higher standard across the industry, making parking management fairer and more reliable.”
The new Code is set to be published in June 2024, with an implementation date of 1st October 2024, and existing sites expected to be in full compliance by late 2026. The IPC and BPA are committed to maintaining and updating the Code, providing guidance, and ensuring consistent sanctions for non-compliance.
This announcement represents a critical step toward enhancing standards and providing a more consistent and fair environment for motorists navigating private parking scenarios.