Drivers in Boston have seen a 236% year-on-year increase in the number of parking fines issued to them by their local council, according to new data analysed by cinch, the UK’s biggest online retailer of used cars.
According to the new figures obtained through a Freedom of Information (FOI) request, Boston Borough Council issued 1,142 more parking fines in 2023/24 compared to 2022/23:
- Between April 2022 and the end of March 2023, 483 parking fines were issued by Boston Borough Council.
- In comparison, between April 2023 and the end of March 2024, this number increased to 1,625 fines, marking a 236% increase year-on-year.
- On average, 4 fines were issued per day between April 2023 and the end of March 2024.
The surge in fines has also led to a significant increase in revenue for the council:
- From April 2022 to March 2023, parking fines generated £11,978 for Boston Borough Council.
- In the following year (April 2023 to March 2024), this figure increased to £32,897, representing a 174% increase.
West End Car Park emerged as the Boston location with the highest number of fines in 2023/24, with 351 reported. In the previous year, West End Car Park again held the top spot, with 109 fines issued.
Sam Sheehan, motoring editor at cinch, commented on the findings: “These figures should be a reminder for all drivers to carefully check any nearby signs before parking – especially in busy areas or places they aren’t familiar with. Nobody wants to find a parking fine come through their letterbox. Also, if you think the fine is unfair or it’s incorrect, don’t forget you have 28 days to appeal to an independent tribunal. And, if it is correct, you might be able to reduce the fine by paying sooner rather than later. ”
