EV charging at service station - PCN

whattheduck

Sorry to jack the thread but I have a similar issue here, given a PCN by Parking Eye for charging my EV in a local Lidl. There's no signs anywhere near the 2x charge points, and nothing obvious on the entrance either. Just a few on the outside of the car park next to the ordinary spaces, for parking. 

The problem is - I naively sent my appeal very quickly just stating "this is a mistake, i was using the charge point" thinking that would be enough to get it cancelled. I even asked Lidl manager and he said this happened to someone else they just called up n got it cancelled. 

No luck for me - they said it covers all spaces. But clearly it's not well marked. 

Should I just pay the £45 at this point seeing I messed up my appeal? Its probably not worth spending hours dealing with it and should chalk it up to a learning experience. But if i 100% won't lose in court, should I just write to them separate to my appeal, and send the pics etc?

Coupon-mad

You haven't messed up the appeal - I would have suggested you appeal telling them you were EV charging - but don't bother with POPLA unless you can get photos proving that there is no PEye sign next to the EV bays.

I reckon you can get that evidence?

POPLA codes last one month.

Just firstly email Lidl's CEO and ask them why there are no PEye signs beside the EV bays because there's nothing to tell drivers that any time limit applies except the one (if any) set by the charger. Ask the CEO to step in as this is a farce and will put you off using their EV bays anywhere in the UK now.

You will need to start a new thread.

whattheduck

Brilliant thanks I'll start a new thread then once I've done that. Will the CEO of lidl seriously reply though, he must get this stuff all the time and just ignore it?

Coupon-mad

Yes - his Team will - that's why we advise it.

Umkomaas

whattheduck said:

Brilliant thanks I'll start a new thread then once I've done that. Will the CEO of lidl seriously reply though, he must get this stuff all the time and just ignore it?

Usually someone replies 'on behalf of'.  See what response you get and let us know. 

Those EV points should have a large, clear notice on/by them from either Lidl or PE stating, 'If you stay longer than 90 minutes in charging your vehicle, be in no doubt, you will receive a £x parking charge. There are no exceptions.'  I'm sure most motorists would not risk an overstay if they read that.