Finding a secure, convenient car park in London is a challenge many residents, commuters, and property investors face. With growing restrictions on street parking, the expansion of Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZ), and increasing demand for off-street parking, understanding how car parks work across the capital is crucial.
Whether you're a homeowner searching for parking near your property, a developer adding value to a residential scheme, or a landlord exploring rental options with parking, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about car parks in London.
Operated by councils or private companies (like NCP or Q-Park), public car parks are widely available in Central London and surrounding boroughs. They offer:
Hourly or daily rates
Secure, barrier-controlled access
Contactless or app-based payments
Some offer electric vehicle (EV) charging stations
Examples include:
Q-Park Oxford Street
NCP London Victoria
Westfield London Car Parks (Shepherd’s Bush & Stratford)
These are typically found:
Beneath apartment blocks
Within gated developments
As communal or allocated bays for residents
Buyers and renters value off-street parking as a major benefit, particularly in Zones 2–6, where car ownership is higher. Some developments offer separately titled parking spaces that can be bought or sold independently.
Platforms like JustPark, YourParkingSpace, and Parklet allow residents and businesses to rent out driveways, garages, or unused spaces on a short- or long-term basis.
This flexible model is ideal for:
Daily commuters
Professionals who split time between home and office
Landlords seeking additional income from unused space
London boroughs operate Controlled Parking Zones to regulate street parking. Residents must apply for a permit (paid annually) and parking is restricted during certain hours.
Zones are common in:
Westminster
Camden
Islington
Kensington & Chelsea
Always check local CPZ maps and charges before purchasing or renting in a new area.
Access to parking in London is increasingly seen as a premium feature, especially in Zones 2–6. Key benefits include:
Higher resale and rental values for properties with private parking
Greater appeal to families and professionals with vehicles
Increased development potential for sites with space for secure bays or EV points
Buyers and investors should factor in planning permissions, parking stress assessments, and s106 obligations when considering parking additions or conversions.
New residential developments across London often include:
Basement or podium-level parking
Cycle storage and EV charging bays
Car clubs or shared mobility schemes as alternatives to private parking
Some boroughs — particularly in Inner London — are enforcing car-free development policies, which limit or eliminate private parking altogether in favour of public transport access.
Fraser Bond advises buyers, landlords, and developers on:
Securing residential properties with private parking
Valuation of homes and apartments with allocated bays
Planning and viability advice for developments with parking infrastructure
Sourcing off-street parking for high-net-worth or corporate clients
Rental strategies for garages and private parking spaces
We help our clients understand the practical, financial, and planning implications of car parking in London — whether you're looking to live, invest, or build.
Car parking in London is more than a convenience — it’s a value driver, an income stream, and, in many boroughs, a logistical challenge. With the right advice, residents and investors can find smart solutions that enhance property usability and long-term appeal. Whether you're searching for a home with secure parking or developing a site with EV-ready bays, Fraser Bond is here to guide your decision with clarity and insight.
