Private Parking Fines: A £473,000 Penalty Signals a Crackdown
Euro Car Parks, one of the UK’s largest private parking companies, has been hit with a £473,000 fine by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) for failing to provide requested information. This marks the first time the regulator has used its new fining powers, sending a strong message to the industry.
Ignoring the Regulator: What Happened?
The CMA imposed the penalty after Euro Car Parks failed to respond to seven requests for information over a three-month period. These requests were made via registered post, email, and hand-delivered letter. The company even attempted to block the CMA’s emails, claiming they were fraudulent, a justification the CMA deemed “not reasonable.” Euro Car Parks initially sought a High Court injunction to prevent its name from being disclosed, but this was refused.
A History of Tickets and Complaints
The fine comes after Euro Car Parks issued nearly 1.9 million parking tickets in the 12 months to the end of September 2025. Numerous drivers have accused the company of unfairly demanding money for alleged parking infringements. Consumer group Which? notes that private parking companies are “often perceived to be the bane of motorists’ lives,” and frequently cause frustration for those disputing charges.
What Does This Mean for the Future of Parking Fines?
This case signals a potential shift in how private parking companies are regulated in the UK. The CMA’s willingness to use its new fining powers suggests increased scrutiny and a stricter approach to compliance. Hayley Fletcher, senior director of consumer enforcement at the CMA, emphasized that providing information is a “legal obligation,” not optional.
Increased Transparency and Consumer Protection
The CMA’s action highlights the importance of transparency in the private parking industry. Lisa Webb of Which? believes that offering greater transparency to both consumers and the regulator is essential for improving the industry’s reputation. Whereas the CMA currently has no consumer enforcement case open against Euro Car Parks, the precedent set by this fine could lead to further investigations and action in the future.
The Rise of Parking Apps and Automated Systems
The increasing reliance on parking apps and automated number plate recognition (ANPR) systems has contributed to the rise in parking fines. While these technologies offer convenience, they also create opportunities for errors and disputes. Drivers are often left feeling confused and stressed when challenging fines issued through these systems.
Potential for Further Regulation
Industry experts predict that this fine could pave the way for more comprehensive regulation of the private parking sector. Possible future changes could include standardized signage, clearer payment processes, and a more streamlined appeals process. The focus will likely be on ensuring fairness and protecting consumers from unfair practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I receive a parking fine?
Carefully review the notice for accuracy. If you believe the fine is unfair, gather any evidence to support your claim and submit an appeal to the parking company.
What if the parking company rejects my appeal?
You may be able to appeal to an independent appeals service, such as POPLA (Parking on Private Land Appeals).
Can private parking companies legally issue fines?
Private parking companies cannot issue legally enforceable “fines.” They can issue “parking charges” which are essentially invoices for breach of contract.
What information does the CMA need from parking companies?
The CMA requires information to assess whether parking companies are complying with consumer protection laws and fair competition rules.
Pro Tip: Always keep copies of your parking tickets, receipts, and any correspondence with the parking company.
Do you have a story about a parking fine dispute? Share your experience in the comments below!
