Car park operator NCP’s administrators are pursuing drivers for outstanding parking fines despite the company’s collapse earlier this year. NCP went into administration in March, endangering close to 700 jobs, with approximately 340 car parks across the country at that time. According to The Times, within the first month of administration, teams managed to recover £402,000 in unpaid fines. NCP was burdened with nearly 100,000 outstanding parking charge notices when it went under, including about 15,000 awaiting court proceedings and another 80,000 with debt collectors.
Even after the collapse, NCP retains the authority to enforce and issue new parking fines. Following the closure of 29 car parks post-collapse, the remaining sites continue their operations while PwC administrators work towards securing a new owner. NCP predominantly leases its car park locations rather than owning them outright. The company attributed its financial struggles to reduced demand for parking post-Covid, especially in city-center and commuter areas impacted by the shift to hybrid work models.
Established in London in 1931, NCP is currently under the ownership of Japanese firm Park24. Parking fees vary by location, with some central London spots charging up to £60 for a 24-hour stay. Zelf Hussain, joint administrator and PwC partner, highlighted the challenging trading conditions NCP faced due to evolving consumer behavior and high fixed costs. He emphasized the priority of ensuring service continuity while evaluating the business thoroughly. Engaging with stakeholders, including landlords and employees, the administrators explore all options, such as a partial or complete business sale, to achieve the best outcome for creditors.