Smart Parking in Asda car park - £70 fine

mondeo-owner

My dad has just got a letter from a company called Smart Parking as his car (lent by my sister) was seen coming into the Asda car park in North Shields at 12.52pm and leaving at 14.17pm. There are signs saying it is a one hour limit but if you need more time you ask at the Customer Services desk, sadly my sister didn't do this. My dad is now facing a £70 fine (£40 if paid within 14 days), and i was wondering if there is any way of getting out of paying?

I was thinking of complaining to Asda, as it's a bit unfair to charge customers when we are there trying to save money.

Any help is much appreciated.

AoD

Fortunately you have not received a fine, just an invoice from a private company which you will NOT be paying!

Was this in England / Wales? The answer will determine what your course of action is. Edit: OK just seen this is in England, so you will need to appeal to the PPC.

In the meantime, definitely complain to Asda. Don't let them fob you off. Then read the stickies at the top of the forum!

AoD

Ok seeing as it is in England, have a read here;

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/4816822

Still complain to Asda (and make sure you speak to the actual store manager), but also draft up an appeal to the PPC. You are appealing as the registered keeper, not the driver and should appeal on the basis that the charge is not a genuine pre-estimate of loss so it is a penalty and that Smart do not have authority to issue charges due to lack of contract.

The sticky above will give you all the details you need but post back if you need any further help.

Coupon-mad

Read the stickies including the newbies thread and the successful complaints thread. Amazed people post without reading any of the info here and thinking it's a FINE!