EVESHAM’s MP says he backing a new bill aiming to end private parking disputes that have angered residents.

The issue has been one that the Journal has covered in recent years at various locations, including a three year saga at Swan Lake Car Park where residents have slammed an operator for giving out ‘unfair’ parking fines.

Mid Worcestershire MP Nigel Huddleston recently spoke in the Commons in a debate on the Parking (Code of Practice) Bill, which was in its final stages in the Commons before being passed for consideration to the House of Lords.

The Bill aims to establish a unitary code of practice for private car park operators that is enforced by a new independent body funded by a levy on operators.

Mr Huddleston spoke on how constituents had approached him about private parking disputes and discussed how a unified code of practice would make dispute arbitration fair.

“Private parking disputes are one of the more frustrating issues that I deal with,” he said.

“Currently, there are two distinct codes of practice and the arbitration of disputes is far too complicated. I try to help constituents how I can but my hands are often tied by the problems of the system. So I wholeheartedly welcome this bill and its measures to address these issues.”

“I commend my colleague Greg Knight for bringing it to the House of Commons and I look forward to seeing its positive results in my constituency. Hopefully this will mean fewer confused motorists and fewer fractious disputes.”