Proposed increase in Penalty Charge Notice

DRIVERS who park in contravention of parking regulations could face the first increase in the cost of a Penalty Charge Notice for more than 20 years when it is discussed by councillors next week.

Following a consultation with local authorities and agreement with CoSLA, new national guidelines on the amount payable for parking and other contraventions has been issued by the Scottish Government.

Dundee City Council’s city development committee will be asked to approve a Penalty Charge Notice of £100, reduced by 50% to £50 if paid within 14 days and increased to £150 if unpaid or unchallenged after 56 days.

Committee convener Mark Flynn said: “Drivers only receive a PCN when they are parked somewhere they shouldn’t be and in Dundee most PCNs relate to road safety, accessibility and local business activity.

“This increase is actually less than the rate of inflation over the intervening years and has to be at a sufficient level for it to have a deterrent effect and support behaviour change.”

According to a report to be considered by councillors on Monday (May 15), the new charges are estimated to increase PCN income by 25%. This estimate accounts for a potential reduction in the number of PCNs issued if it is a more effective deterrent, but also allows for a potential increase in appeals and bad debt.

Income from PCNs is used to maintain the service, including staff wages and maintenance of ticket machines.

Cllr Flynn added: “In an ideal world I would rather we didn’t need to issue any PCNs at all and that everyone parked in a safe and considerate way.

“However, until all drivers park their vehicles safely and without a negative impact on other people there has to be a sanction.”

If the change is agreed it will be introduced on July 1.