The Local Government Secretary, Eric Pickles, is to issue new guidance to local authorities which will give home owners the green light to allow commuters to park on their drives and stop what he described as a “backdoor tax”.
Over recent years the business model has provided a lucrative opportunity for those with an empty driveway, and there are now many websites where people can advertise their parking space. Some families have made earnings of up to £5,000 a year.
Moreover, it proves much cheaper for commuters to park on driveways and also takes cars off the street.
Some local authorities however, who are losing income from on-street parking, have required home owners to pay £385 to apply for change of use planning permission, or face fines of up to £20,000.
No planning permission will be required for parking a single car under the new guidance, although it will still be necessary if, for example, a householder turns their front garden into a minicab rank of car showroom.
Mr Pickles had this to say: “Councils should be welcoming common sense ways that help hard-working people park easier and cheaply and for families to make some spare cash.
“Councils shouldn’t be interfering in an honest activity that causes no harm to others, unless there are serious concerns.”
The move was also welcomed by Anthony Eskinazi, the founder of the world’s largest online parking marketplace, www.parkatmyhouse.com.
He said: ''Drivers should not be at the mercy of vast parking charges and minimal parking spaces. Parking should be no different to all other services where those who shop around can find the best deals. Often drivers feel powerless but by choosing an alternative to council parking, drivers can demonstrate to Councils that they won't stand for inflated prices and poor choice.''
Click here to sign up for our monthly newsletter
