CCJ from a PCN by CEL

Marinemonster · 13 May at 1:38AM

Background: I got a pcn from CEL in October 2025 for parking at my gym more than 3 hours without entering my reg. I missed the date to appeal. I still I got a receipt from my gym showing I was booked into a class that day. I read extensively through the newbies post and threads. I ignored any further reminders and bully tactics. I received a letter before action in March and I emailed a response saying the alleged debt is disputed and any court proceedings will be defended and stated my current address for correspondence. Then I got a claim form in April (posted to old address) but I missed the deadline to respond. Today I got a judgement (also sent to old address).

Reason for missing deadlines to appeal/respond: I live in South Africa and work in the UK so my post is sent to my aunt. The first pcn was sent to my aunt but the reminders were sent to my old address (a house share I left in October 2024). The letter before action was sent to my aunt but the claim form and judgement order was sent to my old address.

What next: I know I can ask for a set aside because they used my old address (despite me sending an email stating my current address AND the first pcn was sent to my correct current address but all subsequent mail was posted to my old address) - my old landlady has sent me photos of my mail but they don't know that, as far as they're concerned I have never seen or received that mail. But I don't want to pay the application fee and if it is rejected then pay the "debt" on top of that. I also am frequently out of the country so will not likely make a court hearing. Can I email CEL asking to settle my debt and ask for a reduction? Will the CCJ be wiped off my credit record?

NB: What is the actual date of my CCJ? Is it the date of issue on the claim form 7 April or the judegement order 7 May?

Many thanks and any/all help appreciated!!!