Southampton UA collected £5.9 million in parking surplus during 2024-25, including £1.6 million from penalty charge notices (PCNs). Data source: DLUHC Revenue Outturn 2024-25.
on 09 April 2026
Southampton Unitary Authority (UA) generates a notable surplus of £5.9 million from parking, placing it ranked 47 out of 282 councils nationwide. This revenue is derived primarily from on-street and off-street parking income, with PCN (penalty charge notice) income accounting for a significant but smaller portion.
How Much Does Southampton UA Make from Parking?
Southampton UA generates substantial revenues through its parking operations, amassing £13.2 million in total parking income according to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) Revenue Outturn 2024-25 figures. Of this amount, £6.8 million is derived from off-street parking facilities, while £6.4 million comes from on-street locations. PCN income stands at £1.6 million, which represents approximately 12% of the total parking revenue.
The surplus generated by Southampton UA through parking operations is a significant factor in its overall financial health. With an expenditure of £7.3 million, the authority's net gain from parking activities amounts to £5.9 million. This income helps fund various civic services and improvements within the city.
How Does Southampton UA Compare to Other Councils?
Southampton UA ranks 47th out of 282 councils in terms of parking surplus, reflecting a strong performance compared to many other local authorities. However, it's worth noting that top-performing councils generate ten times or more income than the average, indicating significant disparities across different regions.
What Are Your Rights When You Get a Parking Fine in Southampton UA?
When faced with a parking fine issued by either the council or a private entity within Southampton UA, motorists have specific rights and procedures to follow. For council-issued PCNs, individuals can take advantage of a 14-day discount period where paying half the penalty charge is possible if payment is made within this timeframe. Beyond this initial stage, formal challenges can be made directly to the council, followed by an appeal at the Traffic Penalty Tribunal if necessary.
In contrast, private parking charges follow different rules and procedures set out by the Parking On Private Land Appeals (POPLA) scheme or the Independent Adjudicator Service (IAS), depending on the operator's trade body affiliation. Under the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012, drivers should also be aware that they may not be liable for fines if the vehicle was used without their knowledge.
How to Appeal a Parking Fine in Southampton UA
To appeal a parking fine issued by either the council or a private entity within Southampton UA, motorists can follow a structured process. The first step involves submitting an informal challenge within 28 days of receiving the notice (or taking advantage of the 14-day discount period for council PCNs). This initial step is important as it allows individuals to contest the fine before formal procedures begin.
Following an unsuccessful informal challenge, motorists can submit a formal representation after receiving a Notice to Owner. If this attempt also fails, independent appeals can be made through either the Traffic Penalty Tribunal (for council-issued fines) or POPLA/IAS (for private parking charges).
According to the DLUHC Revenue Outturn 2024-25, southampton ua generated a parking surplus of £5.9 million in 2024-25
It's important for drivers to know that they have the option to complain directly to their local council without incurring additional costs. there's no need to engage claims management companies as the appeal process is entirely free.
By adhering to these procedures and understanding one's rights under relevant legislation, motorists can effectively challenge parking fines issued within Southampton UA while avoiding unnecessary expenses or complications.
Sources
- DLUHC Revenue Outturn 2024-25
- Traffic Penalty Tribunal
- Protection of Freedoms Act 2012
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