Free Traffic Legal Advice

Hi there,

I recently received 3 PCNs from Lambeth Council for parking in a zone without the correct permit. I have a residents permit for Lambeth zone CR. However, it turns out that one side of St Alphonsus Road is zone CR and CB, and the other side is only zone CB. I parked directly opposite the sign on the other side of the road displaying zone CR and CB, so of course assumed all was OK. The signs on my side of the road were a little further down in either direction so weren't in direct eyeshot.

Here is a streetview link showing my exact parking location - basically on the speed bump next to the flats. https://maps.app.goo.gl/dh34V5PuBCxdNVJS9

You'll note that the parking sign directly next to me at this point shows this:
https://pasteboard.co/aql0s127GngP.png


Whereas the parking sign a little further down my side of the road shows this:
https://pasteboard.co/nTu9gd6bBhCB.png


I attach images of one PCN due to attachment limits (they are all identical but dated 9/12, 10/12 and 11/12) and an image of the location of my car.

Thanks in advance.

Best,
Beatnik

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I parked directly opposite the sign on the other side of the road displaying zone CR and CB, so of course assumed all was OK.

Never take a sign on the opposite side of the road as applying to the side where parked. We see this misconception time and time again, and it's very hard to overturn the PCN in consequence. SFM has indicated two approaches to at least mitigate the matter.

Thank you for your responses - no the car did not move during the period. Given it seems tricky to counter, do you think it is best for me to pay within the 14 day notice? As I don't really want to risk paying near £400 by appealing or waiting! Although if there is a significant chance that the fine could be reduced to 1 then I would consider that option...

Thanks