The AA has warned drivers not to assume that parking restrictions will not apply over the bank holiday weekend.
There is much confusion over the matter and it appears to be a postcode lottery – in some parts of the country motorists will be hit with penalties for not purchasing a ticket, while in other areas drivers will unnecessarily be feeding money into meters when parking is in fact free.
Coastal resorts will pose the biggest risk for unsuspecting motorists, as parking restrictions will apply throughout the weekend. The AA has called upon local councils to make it clear to drivers about where they will need to purchase a parking ticket. Fines of up to £70 will apply for those caught without one in a restricted area.
Earlier this month it was revealed that councils are on course to make £635m profit from parking charges this year – and they are showing no signs of letting up.
13 per cent of drivers said that they had received a ticket after being confused by parking signs, according to an AA poll.
A spokesman for the firm said: “It could turn out to be a very expensive day out by the seaside.
“It will be a field day for some councils which cash in on the confusion – if bank holidays are not explicitly exempted, pay up or don’t park.
“We are warning drivers not to be lulled into believing parking charges and restrictions won’t apply.
“Councils should ensure they inform drivers of the parking rules over the holiday period rather than dish out parking tickets.”
UK seaside resorts including Brighton, Ramsgate, Margate, Bournemouth, and Hastings have parking restrictions in place for the entirety of what will be the last bank holiday before Christmas.
Eric Pickles, the Communities and Local Government Secretary, questioned the decisions of the councils to impose charges at a time when local businesses will be hoping to maximise profits from tourism.
He said: Trying to find somewhere to park has an obstacle course in too many of our towns, cities and seaside resorts, putting off shoppers and visitors.
“Confusing and difficult car parking practices undermine the economic vitality of the high street and tourist destinations.
“Anti-car parking policies do more harm than good: driving hard-working families away into the arms of internet retailers and out-of-town superstores.
“Common sense on parking would be a great way for hard-pressed coastal communities to welcome back visitors and boost their local economy.”
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