I attended Kingston Hospital on December 15 and again on December 16.
On each occasion I parked my car with my blue badge displayed, as I had done previously in October without problem. At no time did I see any notice to say the parking conditions had changed.
I subsequently received two parking fine notices for £100 each (£50 discount if paid within 14 days).
The photographic “evidence” provided in each case did not show my car parked legally or illegally, but being driven on the hospital road while entering and leaving. I question the legality of this “evidence”.
I have appealed against the fines on the grounds of lack of signs, questionable legality of photographic evidence and also the exhorbitant amount of the fines.
I paid £100 (2 x £50) because it was unclear whether I would have to pay £100 for each case if my appeal was not upheld. I expect a full refund.
Citizens’ Advice Bureau advice on fines for parking on private land is that fines should be commensurate with the loss to the landowner (ie, the hospital).
Without a blue badge I would have paid £6.30 for my first visit and £3.30 for the second. So £100 or even £50 is grossly exhorbitant and really outrageous.
I also sent a letter to the chief executive of the hospital trust to investigate the situation.
MICHAEL BROCKING
Chessington
- Send your letters to: letters@surreycomet.co.uk
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