Parked In A Loading Place Or Bay During Restricted Hours Without Loading

YOUWEE

Hi all,

I received a PCN (Code 25) in Harrow on 09-Aug-2025 and would appreciate advice.

What happened:

• I drove with my family (pregnant wife, elderly parents, and young child) to a temple near Headstone Drive / Harrow & Wealdstone.

• I parked in a spot with a single upright sign stating “Loading Only.” There were no bay markings or “Loading Only” painted on the road.

• I believed I was okay as I immediately registered my car in the PayByPhone app (first hour is free in that car park), but I now realise that doesn’t authorise use of a loading bay.

• I left the car to escort my wife and parents slowly to the temple entrance. Due to their mobility needs, this took some time. Once we all reached the temple, I immediately returned back to the car.

• The CEO observed my car from 12:35–12:43 and issued the PCN at 12:43.

• I actually saw the CEO taking photos as I came back (after about 8–9 minutes away) and explained the situation. He told me to challenge it online.

• The PCN states: “Parked in a loading place or bay during restricted hours without loading.” Location given is *“HEADSTONE DRIVE PrncsDr–HarVw, about 3 yds to the tp.”

Key details:

• Photos on Harrow’s site only show my car from different angles, including the sign.
• There were free parking bays nearby at the time, but I mistakenly thought registering in PayByPhone covered me.
• My absence was short (≈8–9 minutes), but not continuous loading, it was helping vulnerable passengers alight and reach the entrance.

Does the boarding/alighting exemption apply here, given I was genuinely helping a pregnant passenger and elderly parents? Should I also ask for the Traffic Management Order and CEO’s full notes in case they reject the challenge.

I’d be very grateful for any guidance on how best to approach this or if someone could share their similar experience.

Nellymoser

You should seek advice over on the Free Traffic Legal Advice forum they specialise in Penalty Notices issued by councils and police. This forum specialise in Parking Charge Notices from unregulated private parking companies.

https://ftla.uk