Government must “throw the book” at predatory parking firms

Citizens Advice has helped with 2,000 private parking problems in the last six months. Chief Executive Gillian Guy says the Government is right to investigate firms that issue unwarranted charges.

Citizens Advice Chief Executive Gillian Guy said:

“Bogus and unfair fines from private parking firms are causing misery for motorists. In the last six months alone we have helped with 2,000 problems as firms slap innocent drivers with excessive and unwarranted charges. The Government is right to probe into the behaviour of private parking firms and needs to throw the book at those found to be acting unfairly. Anyone having difficulties with parking tickets can get help from Citizens Advice.”

Notes to editors:

  1. The Citizens Advice service comprises a network of local bureaux, all of which are independent charities, the Citizens Advice consumer service and national charity Citizens Advice. Together we help people resolve their money, legal and other problems by providing information and advice and by influencing policymakers. For more see the Citizens Advice website .

  2. The advice provided by the Citizens Advice service is free, independent, confidential, and impartial, and available to everyone regardless of race, gender, disability, sexual orientation, religion, age or nationality.

  3. To find your local bureau in England and Wales, visit citizensadvice.org.uk . You can also get advice online at adviceguide.org.uk

  4. You can get consumer advice from the Citizens Advice consumer service on 03454 04 05 06 or 03454 04 05 05 for Welsh language speakers

  5. Citizens Advice Bureaux in England and Wales advised 2.3 million clients on 5.4 million problems from October 2013 to September 2014. For full 2013/2014  service statistics see our quarterly publication Advice trends

  6. Citizens Advice service staff are supported by more than 21,000 trained volunteers, working at over 3,000 service outlets across England and Wales.