Crackdown on councils profiteering through excessive parking fines announced

Erick Pickles says move will support struggling high streets

A crackdown on councils profiteering through excessive parking fines was announced tonight by Eric Pickles, the Communities Secretary.

They have been banned from imposing above-inflation increases in penalties in attempt to bolster local authority coffers. Ministers are also considering outlawing the use of CCTV cameras to spot offenders and allowing motorists who exceed their allotted time a “grace period” before they are fined.

The moves were designed to complement proposals to support struggling high streets.

Mr Pickles said: “Sensible changes to over-zealous parking rules will help make high streets more attractive to shoppers.”