Commentator Andy Jones has blasted the “utterly crackers” parking charges at UK shopping centres, and claimed that they are a “hammer blow” to the retail industry.
It is now costing drivers up to two hours worth of wages just to park their car, according to a new AA analysis.
Speaking to GB News, Jones revealed how parking fees of up to £26 for a few hours of shopping are hitting consumers hard.
He said: “When you think that the minimum wage now is £11.44, the average hourly wage in the UK is £18, people are going to say it will going to cost me about two hours work just to go out and park the car.
Andy Jones blasted the cost of shopping
GB News
“Is there any wonder that people are shopping online when you have the inconvenience and the costs of that?
“It’s a hammer blow in lots of ways because people would just rather shop online. All of those businesses then go into decay, which leads to more anti-social behaviour, more crime people then still don’t go.
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“The other thing is, if people can’t drive, they then buy less because they’re getting the bus and then they don’t stop for that cup of tea.
“They don’t go for a nice lunch, they don’t take the kids with them or granny or anyone else.
“They just go in and they get out. There is no joined up thinking with all of these different things again and again. Last government was the same as this government. There is no joined up thinking.”
The motoring organisation’s analysis revealed charges of up to £26 for just a few hours at city shopping centres across the country.
Parking changes are driving shoppers away
PA
These steep fees, partly intended to encourage use of Park and Ride facilities, have severely impacted retailers during the crucial Christmas shopping season.
“In too many towns, parking costs aren’t just bonkers they’re utterly crackers,” AA spokesman Luke Bosdet told The Sun.
The AA acknowledged the need to reduce inner-city pollution and congestion but argued the approach was harming retailers.
Cambridge’s Grand Arcade topped the list of expensive parking, charging £26.40 for five hours.
Commentator Andy Jones has blasted the “utterly crackers” parking charges
PA
The AA emphasised that while Park and Ride schemes work well in reducing inner city costs and hassle, implementing high charges during major shopping days was counterproductive.
A government spokesman responded to the parking concerns, stating: “We will set out details on a private parking code of practice as soon as possible.”
The commitment comes as both retailers and motoring organisations call for action on excessive parking charges.
The AA has urged the government to address parking costs as part of its plans to rejuvenate town centres.