Andy Burnham is facing mounting pressure to implement a new parking code of practice that could overhaul how drivers are charged and penalised across the country. The proposed code, which was consulted on by the previous government last year, aims to address widespread concerns about unfair parking fines and excessive debt recovery fees. Advocacy groups and national media have urged the Labour leader to act swiftly, arguing that the new rules would prevent drivers from receiving bills for parking offences they did not commit.
What the Code of Practice Covers
The government's consultation on the new Code of Practice ran from 9:30am on 11 July 2025 to 11:59pm on 26 September 2025. It sought views on four key areas: parking charges, debt recovery, grace periods, and parking appeals. According to the government, the feedback is currently being analysed, but no timeline has been announced for the implementation of the final code.
The consultation was initiated under the previous administration, but with the change in leadership, it has been left in limbo. Now, Mr Burnham is being called upon to revisit the proposals and ensure they are brought into force, especially as fears grow that plans for a nationwide app to streamline parking payments were watered down during the consultation process.
Parking Charge Cap and Discounts
One of the most significant proposals is the retention of the current industry cap on parking charges, which stands at £100, with a 40% discount for payments made within 14 days. The consultation sought views on whether this cap should be maintained, while also introducing new data collection requirements to build a stronger evidence base. This would ensure that any future changes to the cap are driven by evidence rather than arbitrary decisions.
The Guardian has been vocal in its support for the code, arguing that it would stop drivers from receiving bills for parking crimes they did not commit. The newspaper has called on Mr Burnham to "bring forward and enforce" the planned code, highlighting the widespread frustration among motorists who feel the current system is stacked against them.
Debt Recovery Fees Under Scrutiny
Another key aspect of the consultation is the cap on debt recovery fees, which currently stands at £70. The government sought views on whether this cap should remain in place, and if so, what the appropriate level should be. This is particularly important because debt recovery fees can escalate quickly, turning a minor parking fine into a significant financial burden for drivers.
The consultation also examined the appeals process, which currently has two second-stage appeal services, one for each of the two trade associations. There is a perception among motorists that the system is biased in favour of parking operators, and the consultation aimed to understand these negative perceptions and find a solution that addresses them.
Grace Period Changes
In February 2025, the Industry Code was updated to ensure that parking charges are not issued in ANPR-controlled car parks when a motorist takes longer than five minutes to pay but can provide evidence of full payment before leaving. The consultation sought views on this change, which is designed to protect drivers from being penalised for minor delays that are often beyond their control.
Mr Burnham has not yet publicly responded to the calls to bring forward the code, but the pressure is mounting. With the consultation closed and the analysis underway, the next steps will be crucial in determining whether these proposed changes become a reality. For now, drivers are left waiting to see if the new rules will be enforced, potentially saving them from unfair fines and excessive fees.
