Boycott call for Fenland retail park over parking enforcement

New parking enforcement at an out of town retail park has prompted some shoppers to threaten a boycott of the site.

Dozens and dozens of people have been venting their anger on social media groups over the new regime, which has recently been introduced at the Cromwell Retail Park in Wisbech.

One complainant said he was planning to appeal after he was issued a £100 fine for parking in an unmarked area of the car park.

He believes the ticket was unfairly issued because there was no signage saying that parking was not allowed on the area where he left his car.

His post prompted numerous posts of support with many urging him to ignore the fine, while others pointed out that a sign in the car park clearly stipulates vehicles must be parked in the clearly marked bays – and his car was not.

Another man accused the private parking enforcement firm of being “over zealous” and warned that drivers may not even be aware they have been ticketed until they receive a letter in the post.

He said: “Park off centre, ticket. Park in disabled bay without blue badge properly displayed, ticket. Stay over the allotted time, ANPR (automatic number plate recognition) cameras get you a ticket.

“Park in a child/family spot without a child seat in the car, ticket. The first you know of it it is when the letter plops on the doormat.”

The retail park, which is home to chains such as Iceland, Sports Direct and B&M as well as a couple of charity shops, has a three hour parking limit.

A sign clearly warns drivers of the three hour limit and states all vehicles must be parked within a marked bay. There is a £100 fine for non-compliance, but this is reduced to £60 if it is paid within 14 days.

However, many of those complaining on social media feel the signage is inadequate.

One unhappy shopper said: “I don’t know why they have even done this. I’ve never seen this car park full it’s just more money to an overzealous company and I for one won’t be using the retail park anymore and I know I am not the only one.

“The only way to hurt these companies is to not allow them a chance to get your money so won’t be going there again that’s for sure.”

Other shoppers felt the introduction of the parking attendant had come without warning, with one woman commenting: “Seems like it's just sprung up out of nowhere.......even the workers knew nothing about.....a little lad works in one of the shops had his moped ticketed three times.”

Many of those commenting suggested those facing the fines should appeal and submit pictures in support of their claim that there is inadequate signage.

One woman wrote: “I would appeal that as people have been complaining there are no markings or signs. So shops are shutting due to low foot fall and once again this will stop people wanting to go there well done whomever decided this.”

Another man said: “Best way to kill the business. Like are people having difficulties finding a parking space there? Is this necessary?”

While another simply said: “Boycott the place.....keep that car park empty, they will soon change when retailers start losing money.”

A view agreed by this woman who commented: “Sorry I’m gonna swerve this retail park, Iceland is in Downham Market and B&M at Elm Low Road, and Pound shop in town, and charity shops ten a penny, so why should I gamble on whether to get a parking ticket or not, bye Cromwell Road.”

The car park is run by UK Parking Control Ltd, who look after more than 500 similar sites nationwide, they have been approached for a comment.