Airport Parking Crackdown Begins as ‘Rogue Operators’ Exploit Legal Loopholes

Bristol Airport illegal parking crackdown reaches record enforcement levels

A major crackdown on illegal parking linked to Bristol Airport is now underway, with officials describing enforcement activity as the highest on record. North Somerset Council has issued 36 enforcement notices since 2024, targeting unauthorised airport parking operators. The council is working in partnership with the airport, police and local communities to tackle the growing issue. Illegal parking around the airport has increased significantly in recent years, with the number of vehicles reportedly doubling over the past decade. Travellers warned over unofficial parking services Many passengers using low-cost, unofficial parking services may be unaware of the risks involved. In some cases, vehicles are not stored in secure facilities but are instead left in open fields without adequate supervision. Efforts to clamp down on these operations have been complicated by a legal loophole, which allows land to be used for temporary purposes for up to 28 days per year without full planning permission. This has enabled some operators to relocate frequently and continue trading. Residents report ongoing disruption In Barrow Gurney, where one illegal parking site is currently under investigation, residents have reported significant disruption. One elderly couple described the situation as “disheartening”, noting that hundreds of vehicles are moved between fields for several months each year. They also highlighted increased noise, traffic and disturbance along local lanes. Another resident said the issue is severely affecting quality of life, citing constant vehicle movements, noise from operators and ongoing activity linked to the sites. Increased enforcement and new action plan Despite these challenges, the council says its enforcement efforts are making a difference. A total of 89 enforcement notices have now been issued, including those served since 2024. Inspection activity has also increased sharply, with more than 1,000 site visits carried out in 2025, compared with over 700 the previous year. Since 2024, more than 170 investigations into suspected illegal parking businesses have been launched, with 56 cases still ongoing. The council has also introduced a new Parking Action Plan, developed in collaboration with parish councils and local communities. The plan includes more than 40 measures designed to tackle illegal parking and prevent new sites from emerging. Advice for airport travellers Officials are urging travellers to carefully consider their transport options when travelling to the airport. Public transport, including 24-hour bus services connecting towns across North Somerset, is being promoted as a safer and more sustainable alternative. Councillor Annemieke Waite, who oversees planning and environmental matters, said the council remains committed to working closely with residents to address concerns around planning enforcement and rogue parking operators. She warned that unscrupulous businesses are causing significant disruption to local communities and, in some cases, may be linked to wider criminal activity. She also confirmed that, while some off-site parking services are operating, none currently have planning permission. Airport supports enforcement action Bristol Airport has backed the crackdown, with chief executive Dave Lees confirming that the airport is funding an additional planning enforcement officer for two years from 2024. He said the increased enforcement is already having a positive impact, with some residents reporting noticeable improvements. The airport will continue to work closely with the council and police to prevent new illegal parking operations and close down existing sites. Further joint enforcement action is expected, with ongoing collaboration aimed at protecting local communities and improving conditions around the airport.