Around eight in ten people in London think parking fines are a money-making operation for their councils, according to a recent survey.

Research carried out by parking app JustPark found that 79 per cent of those surveyed in Greater London believe drivers are “unfairly targeted”.

And more than half – 57 per cent – said they do not know where the money collected from fines is spent.

It comes after new data showed that the surplus from parking charges around the UK has doubled over the last decade to more than £1 billion.

A spokesman for Brent Council explained that parking enforcement is a necessary duty and highlighted where the funds collected go.

He said: “Parking enforcement plays a really important role in reducing congestion and improving road safety by discouraging illegal parking.

“It also helps protect parking spaces for residents, businesses and visitors.

“Any money left over after processing fines goes towards funding Freedom Passes for our over 60s and disabled residents.”

Anthony Eskinazi, CEO and founder of JustPark has called for “better clarity and communication” from councils to inform drivers of how parking enforcement in the borough works.