Vince Cable

On July 1st a new system of differential charges for parking enforcement came into effect. Instead of the blanket £80 fine (discounted to £40 if paid within 14 days) there will be a high rate (£100, discounted to £50) and a lower rate (£60, discounted to £30).

Vincent Cable, MP, has been seeking a flexible system for genuine CPZ permit holders who are fined for not displaying their permits properly. And under the new system, if it can be proved that there is a valid permit the fine will be cut to £60 (£30 discounted).

Vincent Cable said he was "pleased that there has been flexibility. I have large numbers of complaints from people who pay for CPZ permits and then find themselves fined if their permit has fallen from the windscreen to the floor just as heavily as if they had engaged in anti-social parking or had encroached on a bus lane. It is right that there should be some penalty for non display - since otherwise it is impossible for the wardens to identify illegal parking - but it is a purely technical offence and residents should not be treated like those breaking the rules".