Watchdog backs MSP’s Bill to deal with parking

Murdo Fraser says his Bill will bring ‘cowboy’ parking companies to heel

Britain’s parking watchdog has backed a Holyrood Bill aimed at clamping down on rogue car park operators.

Murdo Fraser MSP has unveiled a private members Bill, demanding a change in Scottish law to bring “cowboy” companies under control.

The Conservative politician announced the move on Friday, following hundreds of complaints about Perth’s Kinnoull Street multi-storey car park run by Smart Parking.

The Bill aims to introduce a fully independent appeals panel, as well as putting a cap on fines.

It will also call for clearer car park signs and the removal of “misleading terms” on penalty notices.

The Bill has now received backing from the British Parking Association (BPA), which said there was a need to establish a standard-setting body to oversee a code of practice.

Andrew Pester, the association’s chief executive said: “We are delighted that parliamentarians are listening and taking decisive action to ensure the private parking sector operates in a consistent and transparent manner for the motorist.

“The BPA has been working closely with the Scottish Government, calling for a common code of practice that is good for the motorist and the sector.”

Mr Fraser, MSP for Mid-Scotland and Fife, said: “The provision of car parking is a legitimate business activity, but fleecing unsuspecting motorists for minor infringements is not part of the deal.

“My Bill aims to strike a fair balance between parkers and operators. Right now, the balance has been tipped too far in the direction of the industry and my proposals aim to right this ship.”

He said that older and vulnerable motorists are among those most likely to be caught out by unclear signs and “misleading practices”.

“The current position surrounding the enforceability of private parking tickets in Scotland is far from clear,” he said.

“It is time this was changed to give parkers and providers indisputable rules to work with.”

The Bill has gone out to public consultation and could be introduced in parliament by next year.

Fellow Conservative MSP for MidScotland and Fife, Liz Smith, added: “Murdo has campaigned hard on behalf of parkers and I would encourage people across Scotland to engage with this consultation, as your views and experiences could shape the new laws.

“Parking on private land should be simple and this proposed Bill aims to clean up some of the legal black spots currently affecting motorists.”

The move has also been backed by Smart Parking, which said it would welcome the setting up of an independent appeals service.

My Bill aims to strike a fair balance between parkers and operators. Right now, the balance has been tipped too far in the direction of the industry... MURDO FRASER MSP