Lurgan motorists are being “unfairly caught out” following the “sudden introduction of charges” at a car park in the town.
Sinn Féin councillor, Keith Haughian, says he has been contacted by many who have been slapped with charges following a stint in the once-free North Street car park.
Councillor Haughian says issues like “unclear signage, poor communication, no barriers, and a poorly placed pay machine have caused real confusion”.
He added: “I’ve also raised concerns about the state of the car park itself – litter, glass, and broken surfacing.
“I’ve asked for a short grace period and offered to assist with a proper public information effort so that local people aren’t unfairly caught out.
“A bit of common sense and communication would go a long way here – and I’ll keep pushing for that.”
Many have also complained about errors in printing tickets and others being fined in error.
One person, somewhat tongue in cheek, said the issue seems to have impacted half of Lurgan.
Meanwhile, SDLP representative Ciaran Toman, says the issuance of Parking Charge Notices in North Street car park is the “latest attempt of trying to squeeze the life out of Lurgan town centre”.
He added: “These companies have an onus to make sure that people know exactly what the rules are around parking and what the potential penalties for breaking these are prior to them using the car park. Sending a letter in the post demanding money isn’t good enough.
“Inadequate signage, little to no communication to users and no use of the barriers from a company who label themselves as ‘the most experienced car parking management company in the UK’ is an absolute disgrace and is quite repugnant.”
Mr Toman shared the following ways on how to successfully appeal a PCN:
– If you are the registered keeper of the vehicle but were not driving it the day the parking charge notice was issued.
– If you were driving a vehicle and believe that the ticket was issued incorrectly, including; if there were no signs in the car park or the signs were broken or hard to read, an error with the car park’s cameras, or receiving a PCN for parking in a disabled bay despite having a valid blue badge.
He continued: “I would urge you all to click on the link below from the Consumer Council for more information and who also will be able to assist those who are vulnerable.
“It is best to seek advice as soon as you get a PCN, do not contact the company who have issued the ticket as this will be seen as an admission of fault and will make the appeal more difficult.”
