Motorists fined while parking at a town railway station during a free period can claim refunds, its former operator has confirmed.
NCP will cancel or refund parking charge notices (PCNs) issued on March 26 and 27 at Grantham Railway Station, adding that no tickets were issued after March 27 when it stopped operating the site.
The operator had listed Grantham Station car parks 1-3 among 22 sites due to close on Friday, March 27, after it went into administration.
The station car park entrance with “free parking today” signage in place. Photo: Supplied
The car parks were kept open by Grantham Estates, which later made arrangements for Euro Car Parks to take over from March 31.
Nottingham driver Andrew Wheeler complained after parking for around half an hour on March 27 while collecting a passenger.
He said he did not pay because the pay machine was closed and “free parking today” banners were displayed, but later received a £60 charge.
He paid the charge, but NCP later withdrew it after LincsOnline contacted the company.
Andrew said he photographed the signs because the situation seemed “a bit odd” but felt they were not initially taken into account.
NCP said: “Having looked into this matter, we can confirm that any PCNs issued at Grantham Station on Friday, March 27, will be cancelled/refunded.
“We apologise to Mr Wheeler for any inconvenience caused.”
The company later confirmed PCNs issued on Thursday, March 26, would also be cancelled or refunded.
David Hindmarch, managing director of landowner Grantham Estates, said the firm had raised concerns after hearing from several motorists, including some who said they received tickets dated March 28.
He said NCP had removed signage before issuing tickets, adding that drivers had parked legitimately at the time.
David said: “As long as they are true to their word and they do that, then that’s good.”
Grantham Estates previously said parking was free while new arrangements were introduced after NCP entered administration and stepped away from the site.
Drivers who believe they are still owed a refund should contact NCP directly following the appeal instructions on their parking charge. Alternatively [email protected] if you do not receive a response within 28 days.
