Thread: Inadequte parking signs: acceptable defence?

Hi all,

I parked at Ogmore beach, in Wales very early one morning to go surfing with two friends. Not one of us noticed the parking signs, nor the meter hidden by the lifeguard station, however, on my return to the car I have a parking ticket asking for £125 (reduced to £40).

I genuinely believe the carpark was/is inadequtely signed, as three people didn't notice them (it was dark, but then lighting should be provided).

Is this likely to stand up in court, or has it been used successfully before as a defence?

Thanks,
Dunnie1.

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125 reduced to 40 ? ? this must be a PPC ticket and not a council one ? can we see it please ? inadequate signage a defense against either kind of ticket. was this in a car park or on the beach itself ?

If a member of BPA, signage should be clear from different positions in the car park. Doesn't sound like council to me - fine is way too high. Should also be indicated on the sign itself. Have you a picture of the sign?

I don't have the tkt, I foolishly ripped it up in disgust on the day.. I do have a letter from a solicitor using headed paper from the Vale of Glamorgan Council though: It is as follows -

Re ****** - notice of excess charge

On reviewing our database of Excess charge payments with our legal and finance section, records detail your excess charge payment of £45 is still outstanding. Your vehicle was aprked in Rivermouth car park 7th August, 2008 at 11.05 with no valid parking ticket displayed.

The Council will extend the period for the payment of £45 until 3rd October 2008.

For any period thereafter charges will be £125 plus costs and interest. The payment of these costs will involve an invoice sent to you in person for settlement.

Solicitor
Operational Manager Highway Maintenance.

No picture of sign, but will return to car park if this goes to court at same time in morning with video camera, film a crimewatch re-creation..

There was one sign coming into car park, (didn't see in darkness). then one in the whole of car park, no-where near where I parked, and 1 meter tucked away in a corner. All three of us agreed in was inadequate.

this is an ECN then not a pcn. different game. take pictures of the inadequate signage - lots of shots around the car park to show how bad the situation is. check council website re challenging the ECN

OK thanks. Not sure what ECN's and pcn's are though..

Show us the photos.

Bear in mind it's rare to win in magistrates court and it may well be easier all round to pay the £45.