Pubs to be penalised for clamping cars

Pubs will no longer be able to clamp or tow the cars of non-customers under new legislation to be introduced at the end of the year.

Wheel clamping and towing on private land in England and Wales will be banned as part of the Government's Freedom Bill in November with "tough penalties" for anyone who attempts it.

One Hampshire licensee won't be welcoming the change. "It is hugely unfair," said Adam Rainford, lessee of Greene King pub the Roebuck Inn, Winchester. "It is your property and you should be able to protect it."

Two weeks ago Rainford took down the clamping signs for a trial period, but found that the 18-space car park was full by 8.45am.

"It does look negative and I'm not a fan of clamping, but it is unavoidable in our location — we are near the station, a college and just a six-minute walk from town.

"Eighteen spaces isn't a lot for a 100-seat pub. Well over 60% of customers drive here so we can't have non-customers parking."

However, managing director of Marston's Inns and Taverns Derek Andrews supports the ban, branding clamping an "abhorrent practice".

"Clamping is a neanderthal practice that we can do without," he said. Instead, Marston's managed pubs use a ticket system that charges around £1 per hour. Paying customers can redeem their ticket costs inside the pubs.

"It is unreasonable to leave your car in a car park all day. If people flout reasonable behaviour there will be a price to pay."

Home Office minister Lynne Featherstone said: "For too long motorists have fallen victim to unscrupulous tactics by many clamping firms.

"A ban on clamping and towing on private land will end this abuse and companies who decide to flout new laws will face severe penalties."