Tough new rules to stop cowboy clampers

Tough new rules introduced by the government will target rogue parking firms and their silly car clamps.

Until now, to drivers utter outrage, private companies can request the details of a vehicle owner from the DVLA in order to issue penalty notices for drivers they claim have illegally parked on private land.

Now, all private companies carrying out these requests will have to become a member of an Accredited Trade Association and abide by strict codes of conduct.

The government are planning to target rogue firms and landowners who unfairly clamp cars, then demand huge wads of money to get their cars back, even by intimidation.

Transport Minister Sadiq Khan said: “Where drivers break legitimate conditions set by landowners then it is right that penalties are applied.  But we will not tolerate unscrupulous firms breaking the law by overcharging or intimidating motorists.

“We want a fair system that is clearly communicated with an independent complaints procedure.

The move comes as part of a cross-government action plan helping to protect motorists and stop cowboy clampers.

Issues arising from being clamped such as excessive penalties, impounding cars unreasonably quickly, bad signs and an independent appeal process are all likely to be addressed in the action plan.