The Competition and Markets Authority has launched an investigation into the issuing of parking tickets to motorists stopping at petrol stations, with the watchdog looking into whether drivers have been issued penalties when queuing for fuel or using valeting services.
The probe specifically concerns tickets issued by Euro Car Parks, with the CMA saying it suspects the UK firm of breaking consumer law. The organisation is looking at whether “it’s fair for some drivers to receive parking charges while queuing for, or using, petrol pumps and other forecourt services such as car washes”.
The body is also investigating how Euro Car Parks’ appeals process works and whether it is in line with legislation – although on all counts the CMA says: “At this initial stage, it should not be assumed that ECP has infringed consumer protection law”.
The petrol-station investigation is part of a wider package of actions revolving around private parking firms, with the CMA saying 14.4m penalties were issued at gyms, supermarkets, restaurants and retail parks in the last financial year, more than double the number issued six years ago.
Euro Car Parks is the only firm being investigated for petrol-station parking tickets, but a number of forecourt operators use ANPR parking enforcement cameras that log registrations and vehicle entrances and exits, with systems typically issuing tickets automatically if drivers stay on site for more than 30 minutes – though there is no suggestion this practice is contrary to law, or under investigation.
Emma Cochrane, executive director of consumer protection for the CMA, comments:
“Parking companies must treat motorists fairly at all stages – and a clear and consistent appeals process must be at the heart of this.
“We’re setting out a package of actions and recommendations to help drivers and we’ve launched an investigation into the practices of Euro Car Parks.
“It’s time for all private parking operators to comply with consumer law or risk action from the CMA.”
