Over 100,000 Motorists Appeal Private Parking Charges

Parking on Private Land Appeals (POPLA) has today published its 2025 Annual Report, marking a record year in which the service received more than 107,000 appeals for independent review.

The milestone reflects continued demand for POPLA’s independent service, as motorists increasingly seek redress where they believe parking charges have been issued incorrectly or unfairly. Despite the unprecedented volume of appeals, the report highlights how POPLA continued to deliver decisions at scale while maintaining a strong focus on fairness and accessibility.

The report highlights the most common issues behind appeals, including unclear or confusing signage, payment issues and inconsistencies in how parking operators apply their processes.

By identifying these recurring issues, POPLA works with operators and the British Parking Association to support improvements across the private parking sector and reduce the likelihood of similar problems affecting motorists in the future.

Ed Dodman, Interim CEO for Trust Alliance Group, which delivers the POPLA service, said: Last year was a record year for POPLA, with more motorists than ever turning to us when they felt a parking charge had been issued unfairly, showing that the new charter is working.“

“Parking charges can be an emotive issue for drivers, so it’s vital that they have access to an independent review when they believe a charge is incorrect. The high number of appeals shows the important role that independent redress plays in giving drivers confidence that their case will be considered fairly.“

“Our decisions not only resolve individual disputes but also help highlight issues that can be improved across the private parking industry. A clear and consistent appeals process, with independent oversight, is an important part of building trust for both motorists and operators. We look forward to hearing more about the government’s Private Parking Code of Practice later this year.”

Alison Tooze, British Parking Association Chief Policy & Engagement Officer, said: “The BPA welcomes the publication of POPLA’s latest annual report, which underlines the role the service plays in providing motorists with an independent appeals process for parking charges issued on private land.

“The figures in the report underline the importance of a free and impartial route being available for drivers who believe a parking charge has been issued incorrectly.

“The figures also show that just 0.64 per cent of parking charges issued last year progressed to a second stage appeal at POPLA, with a majority of parking charges being paid and the remainder resolved by operators at the initial appeals stage.

“Of those that did reach this stage, around half were cancelled – meaning only 0.32 per cent of all charges ultimately required further escalation. This helps to demonstrate the effectiveness of car park operators’ existing processes which are helping to protect decent drivers and ensure parking space is fairly shared amongst those who need it.

“A truly independent appeals service is fundamental to a fair and transparent private parking system, ensuring decisions are made consistently and based on all available evidence.

“The report highlights the importance of transparency across the sector, from signage and payment processes to communication with drivers. By identifying issues and sharing insights, POPLA plays a role in supporting high standards and improving the experience for motorists.

“The BPA and its members are committed to acting upon feedback from POPLA and continue to support government efforts to strengthen regulation and improve confidence in the framework governing parking on private land.”

The POPLA 2025 Annual Report is now available to read in full at https://www.popla.co.uk/reports