A £100 parking penalty issued to drivers who ventured beyond a specific zone has been cancelled following intervention from the site owner.
New restrictions implemented at Wick Parade car park in Littlehampton faced criticism after customers received fines for browsing adjacent businesses situated just a short distance away, despite being within the immediate vicinity.
Local MP Alison Griffiths, representing Bognor Regis and Littlehampton, contacted the landowner directly, who subsequently directed operator One Parking Solutions Ltd to cease issuing the penalties.
According to Ms Griffiths, the core issue was never about preventing reasonable parking management, but rather ensuring equitable treatment. She noted that imposing £100 fines for routine retail visits was unreasonable, which prompted her to escalate the matter to Parliament and hold those responsible accountable. The MP expressed appreciation for the landowner’s willingness to listen and swift response to the concerns raised.
The previous regulations permitted parking for up to three hours but imposed penalties on anyone who departed the designated boundary, irrespective of whether they were patronising neighbouring establishments. Additional provisions penalised motorists who returned to the location within 60 minutes. The premises featured numerous CCTV cameras employed to ensure compliance with these restrictions.
An inquiry initiated by Ms Griffiths collected more than 1,200 responses, leading her to present the matter in the House of Commons and demand measures against what she characterised as improper parking enforcement practices.
Signage at the car park indicated that parking was restricted to Wick Parade customers who remained on the premises throughout their visit.
The Argus previously sought clarification from One Parking Solutions regarding its policies at the location but received no response.
The firm operates from Worthing and holds a one-star rating on Google based on over 500 reviews.
In remarks provided to the BBC during the current month, One Parking Solutions stated that the restrictions at the car park were prominently exhibited and encouraged drivers to review signage prior to parking, noting that alternative parking options existed for those disagreeing with the terms.
In 2019, the company was informed it would forfeit management of a retail car park in Peacehaven following complaints from businesses regarding the damaging effects of its penalty structure.