Firm vows to change its practices

One of Smart Parking’s staunchest critics has given a guarded welcome to the company’s apparent sea change.

Boss Nigel Coltman revealed that he wanted to move away from controversial practices after a flood of complaints from Perth motorists.

The firm came under fire after revamping its multi-storey site on Kinnoull Street.

During talks with SNP MP Pete Wishart, Mr Coltman said he would review the grace period given to motorists entering and leaving the site, and take a “common-sense approach” to people incorrectly logging their registration details.

Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser, who published a Private Member’s Bill last year aimed at cracking down on unscrupulous car park operators, said: “A change of heart from Smart Parking would be very welcome but locals will believe it when they see it.

“However, I feel we still need legislative change at Holyrood. There is an opportunity to do this in the current Transport Bill.”

Mr Fraser has written to Transport Secretary Michael Matheson to ask about what further action can be taken. He has called for a cap on fines and the introduction of an independent body to adjudicate on appeals.

“I have been pushing for a change in law surrounding private parking firms who issue motorists with excessive fines,” Mr Fraser said.