Drivers risk spending millions on parking fines amid rise in money-grabbing hotspot streets

Line of cars parked

Glasgow, Wellington Street raised £261,000 in parking fines

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Hemma Visavadia

By Hemma Visavadia


Published: 28/09/2024

- 10:12

Motorists were fined £1.2million on one street in London

Motorists across the UK are being warned about parking fine hotspots, as new data reveals thousands of drivers could be hit with hefty penalties in notorious locations.

A recent report by Select Car Leasing has analysed parking violation data from councils nationwide, identifying the streets with the highest number of infractions.


Queensway in Westminster, central London, emerged as the worst street for parking fines across the UK.

According to the study, over 9,300 Penalty Charge Notices were issued on this street alone in just one year totalling £1.2million worth of fines.

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9,300 Penalty Charge Notices were issued in one London region

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Graham Conway, Managing Director at Select Car Leasing, said: "Walking back to your car and seeing that dreaded black and yellow packet stuck to your windscreen is enough to make your heart sink, particularly if you've misunderstood the rules rather than chanced your arm.

"Queensway is a major route running through one of London's most densely populated and tourist-heavy areas, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. With multiple double yellow lines and loading bays in the area, it's easy for motorists to get caught out by parking restrictions."

These fines, issued by Civil Enforcement Officers, cover a range of offences from stopping on double yellow lines to failing to pay required charges.

Drivers typically have 28 days to pay the charge, with potential reductions for early settlement within 14 days.

Beyond London, Birmingham, Alum Rock Way tops the list with over 6,600 fines issued in one year, totalling £465,330 worth of fines.

The street's bustling shopping district and limited parking spaces contribute to its high violation rate.

Oxford's Mansfield Road saw 4,873 PCNs issued, potentially costing motorists up to £341,000. The street's restricted parking and high demand make it challenging for drivers.

In Glasgow, Wellington Street accumulated 3,731 PCNs, with fines reaching £261,000. Its proximity to key office spaces and transport links increases parking pressures.

Liverpool's Duke Street rounds out the list with over 3,700 PCNs issued, resulting in £231,000 in fines.

As a key route into central Liverpool, its popularity for dining and nightlife contributes to parking violations.

Conway added: "With enforcement efforts intensifying, drivers are urged to double-check parking signs and look up their parking options ahead of time.

“Check council websites or use mobile apps to find available spaces and avoid parking in restricted areas, even if it seems convenient."

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Birmingham, Alum Rock Way handed out 6,600 fines

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He emphasised the importance of being mindful of parking rules, especially in high-risk areas with heavy traffic and limited spaces.

"In many of these streets, the sheer volume of traffic and the limited parking spaces create a high-risk environment for drivers. Being more mindful of parking rules can help avoid hefty fines," Conway explained.

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