The parking platform has arrived
The National Parking Platform (NPP) is a not-for-profit business that connects multiple parking service providers to thousands of locations nationwide.
Instead of requiring drivers to download multiple apps, the NPP integrates those apps so that drivers can use the payment channel they trust at any location.
Created by the Department for Transport (DfT) and now run independently, the NPP is governed by local authorities, service providers, and the British Parking Association (BPA).
The platform is currently being used by around 25 local authorities to offer motorists the ability to pay for parking with one of six apps.
David Sinclair was appointed to lead the NPP in June 2026. He has more than 20 years of experience in the parking, and has a background in parking technology and innovation.
Sinclair joined the NPP after serving as managing director of traffic technology at Marston Holdings. Prior to this Sinclair held operations and account director roles at NSL Services and management roles at National Car Parks.
A long-time supporter of the NPP’s vision, he strongly believes in the platform’s potential to transform the driver experience while supporting a stronger and more open parking market.
The NPP in 10 questions
Parking Review asked David Sinclair 10 questions about how the NPP is developing and its future direction of travel.
1. There are currently six parking service providers on the NPP. Are more in the wings?
Yes, further service providers are progressing through the application and onboarding process. Our ambition is to have ten live service providers by the end of 2026, subject to each completing the necessary requirements. The NPP remains open to additional providers that meet its functional, technical and commercial requirements, increasing choice for drivers. The next set of service providers will start their assessments in Q1 of 2027.
2. What happens to kerbside and car park signage bearing logos when new providers are added? Are patch stickers sent, or is the plan eventually not to show specific brands?
At present, all NPP signage displays service provider logos. We are developing a sustainable, long-term approach, which is currently under review and will be trialled before final approval. Further information will be published in early 2027.
3. Is the DfT going to authorise an NPP icon to signal that kerbside parking areas fall within the scheme?
The NPP logo, including its radiophonic ‘P’, appears on all signage at participating NPP locations and serves as the main identifier for drivers. The logo was developed while the project was led by DfT, but the symbol has not been formally authorised by the DfT as a kerbside parking icon. There is currently no confirmation of whether it will receive formal authorisation or any timetable for this.
4. Is there a formal waiting list or pipeline of local authorities waiting to go live on the NPP?
Yes, we have an active pipeline of local authorities, from initial discussions through onboarding and preparation to go live. Each council progresses at its own pace, depending on its existing arrangements and readiness to join.
5. There are around 25 local authorities in the scheme. How many will be part of it by year-end?
We currently have 25 authorities live and a further 10 in onboarding, bringing us to 35 live authorities by the end of January 2027, with more going live in early February – more than triple the number we had in September 2025. We also have a number of authorities about to sign their contracts and start onboarding.
6. As yet, no commercial operators appear to be taking part. Are any set to join soon?
Yes, we are in talks with the first private parking operator to onboard onto the NPP to be piloted. This will extend the platform beyond local authority parking and help bring the same payment choice to participating privately operated locations. A launch date will be announced soon. Please follow us on LinkedIn to learn more.
7. When will we see the first rail stations, airports and supermarkets join the scheme?
We will be welcoming the first Rail Network onto the NPP before Christmas.
8. Are there concerns about gaps in coverage across towns where the NPP is live, given that some councils are not making all sites available and private operators are not yet on board?
Coverage is growing as more councils join the NPP, giving drivers greater choice in more locations. Councils can introduce their sites in phases, and the planned onboarding of our first private parking operator is another positive step towards wider coverage. While not every parking location in a town will be included immediately, each new site brings us closer to a more connected parking network. Clear signage helps drivers recognise participating locations and understand the payment options available.
9. What progress is being made to bring electric vehicle chargepoint sites and providers into the scheme?
EV charging is an exciting area of potential growth for the NPP, and we are exploring how chargepoint sites and providers could connect to the platform. There is already interest in this opportunity, and we are looking at shaping a clear roadmap to enable this. Although it is too early to confirm a trial or launch date, these discussions are a positive first step towards extending the benefits of a more connected network to EV drivers.
10. David, how are you personally finding the shift in gear from leading a commercial operation to an organisation seeking to provide a service to both the motoring public and the parking sector?
I’ve spent the last 20 years working in the parking industry in roles which prioritise the end user experience whilst maintaining sustainable commercial outcomes, so NPP is a perfect fit for me. It’s been a steep learning curve but understanding the end goal, how our decisions impact motorists, and knowing so many great people in the industry, has really given me a head start.
For more information on the National Parking Platform visit: www.npp.org.uk
Email: get-started@npp.uk.net
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