Hugo Griffiths

Highlighting an issue that hits drivers in the pocket

DRIVERS in the UK are being stung by parking permit bills of up to £1,200-plus, depending on where they live.

This is the conclusion of the latest investigation into the annual cost of parking in the UK by our sister title Carbuyer.

Over 240 councils were contacted for the investigation, with local authorities asked how much they charged for an annual resident’s parking permit in their Controlled Parking Zones.

The audit also looked at what sort of administration fees are imposed, and whether councils apply a surcharge for diesel cars.

You can read some of the highlights on the right, but even a cursory look at the figures shows drivers are faced with a postcode lottery.

Commenting on our findings, a spokesperson from the Local Government Association told us: “Our communities vary considerably from place to place, and it is important that local councils are able to make decisions that best meet the needs of their area.”

Visit www.carbuyer.co.uk/ parking-charges to get a full picture of the state of residents’ parking in the UK.

“We understand that a replacement permit may need to be created, but if it costs £30 to have a piece of paper made then that authority should seek a new supplier” EDMUND KING President, AA