Derry MLA calls for regulation of private parking firms

SDLP MLA Mark H Durkan has called for regulation of the private parking industry across the North.

Previously, Mr Durkan had raised systemic issues within the industry across sites in Derry including unresolved ANPR camera errors or complications with the registration system at Crescent Link and the Riverfront Complex which had led to motorists erroneously receiving fines.

The MLA for Foyle said: “Once again, we're hearing from people across the city who are being targeted by private parking firms using dubious tactics and operating in a legal grey area. These companies are not issuing fines but rather invoices, and they rely on confusion and fear to get people to pay up.

“My office deals with these charges every day; some dating back years, only to resurface unexpectedly after months or even years of no contact, to find that the charge has spiralled to hundreds of pounds.

“I’ve dealt with countless cases where individuals have received threatening letters over supposed violations, often based on faulty camera evidence or registration systems.

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“The law in the North is different from England and Wales, where many of these companies are based. These companies often assume they can operate the same way here but they can’t. In NI, it's the driver, not the registered keeper, who is liable for any alleged breach. If the company doesn’t know who was driving, they can’t enforce a charge in the same way. But many firms continue to send intimidating letters to registered keepers, hoping they’ll just pay up.

“It’s disappointing that despite repeated calls, the Minister won’t be introducing legislation to regulate these firms pressuring people into handing over their hard-earned money and taking advantage of those who don’t know their rights. I would urge anyone who has received one of these charges and is worried about it, to either contact my constituency office or the Consumer Council for assistance.”