UK Parking Provider Investigated Over Fairness of Petrol Forecourt Tickets
Euro Car Parks' appeals process and petrol station parking charges under scrutiny by CMA
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The CMA investigates Euro Car Parks over fairness of parking tickets at petrol forecourts and its appeals process, amid a wider crackdown on private parking operators' potentially unfair practices.
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Private parking operators have faced criticism for unfair practices, prompting a CMA crackdown.
One of the UK's largest private parking providers, Euro Car Parks, is under investigation by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) over the fairness of parking tickets issued to drivers queuing at petrol forecourts. The investigation also examines the company's broader appeals process related to petrol stations and car parks to determine if it breaches consumer protection law.
This probe is part of the CMA's broader effort to address potentially unfair practices by private parking operators. Research by the RAC indicates a more than doubling of parking tickets issued in locations like gyms, supermarkets, and retail parks over six years, reaching 14.4 million. Motorists have complained about issues including unclear signage, faulty payment apps, and broken ticket machines.
The CMA aims to ensure drivers are treated fairly, highlighting concerns over the handling of appeals and additional fees imposed by some operators. The regulator has written to the sector, warning operators to review and adjust their terms and conditions to comply with consumer law.
Emma Cochrane, CMA's Executive Director of Consumer Protection, emphasized the need for fair treatment, especially given the financial pressures on motorists. She warned that non-compliance would result in action.
The investigation into Euro Car Parks, which operates over 3,000 facilities in the UK and Ireland, focuses on the fairness of charges for queuing at or using petrol pumps and other forecourt services. It is in the evidence-gathering stage and is expected to conclude by Spring 2027.
Motorists on social media have expressed frustration over receiving tickets for activities like charging electric vehicles or simply waiting in line. Some reported lack of clear signage.
Consumer groups like Which? and The AA have welcomed the investigation, citing the frustration and confusion among motorists facing unfair charges. The AA's Jack Cousens argued that forecourts should allow motorists to refuel without penalty for waiting.
The BBC attempted to contact Euro Car Parks for comment but had not received a response at the time of reporting.
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Increased regulatory scrutiny of private parking operators across the UK
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Offene Fragen
- Outcome of the Euro Car Parks investigation
- Broader impact on the private parking industry
