Barking Park parking - First 2 hours free - PCN

ThievingState

I parked to Barking Park parking on Saturday and a local advised that the first 2 hours were free, which was confirmed on the Notice Board in the parking area. Unfortunately, I did not notice the small writing underneath that required 'all free sessions need to be registered with the app'. I went in the park with my family to check it out, thinking to check out the park first and see if we want to stay and then come back and book for the 4 hours option, which was about 2.50 including the 2 free hours. After less than an hour, I came to book the parking but there was already a PCN on the windscreen from the Council (not private) for not registering with the app. The PCN was issued about 15mins before I found it and I immediately proceeded with purchasing the 4hour slot. The next day I challenged it based on the fact that I purchased a ticket for a session that was free anyway. However they (Barking Council) already replied rejecting my challenge, because ' we do allow motorists a small window of time in which they can purchase a session after the vehicle was observed, your session was purchased outside of that window'.

My options now are to either pay the reduced fine or wait for the 'Notice to Owner' to make a formal representation to the Council.

Are there grounds and a good chance to make a formal representation? Any similar experiences? 

Gr1pr

As this is council and not private parking, please post your query over on the FTLA parking forum after reading their posting requirements there, they can assist you with council PCNs 

Mse forum mainly deals with private parking company charges