Free Traffic Legal Advice

Hi all,

I’m looking for advice on whether to take this further or pay the reduced rate.

I received a PCN (QM01495633) issued by Manchester City Council on 12/07/2025 at 23:09 for allegedly parking in contravention of code 01 – Parked in a restricted street during prescribed hours.

Key Details:
Location: St John Street, Manchester
Time of PCN: 23:09 (11:09 PM)
Vehicle Reg: D24MAR
Contravention Code: 01
Reduced Charge Offer: £35 if paid within 14 days from service of rejection letter
My Argument:
Initially, I believed I was in a pay-and-display bay and didn’t need to pay at that time (outside 8am–8pm). I provided a photo of the machine showing it and the sign stating charges apply 8am–8pm. However, the council rejected the appeal saying I was actually parked on a single yellow line, which is enforced 8pm to 8am, 7 days a week. They claim there are two time plates on the street confirming this.

I don’t recall seeing those time plates, and it was dark. I thought it was a standard pay-and-display bay, and signage was unclear.

What I Have:
Photo of the machine with the time
Informal challenge submitted referencing P&D bay hours
Council's formal rejection letter dated 22/07/2025

Advice I’m Looking For:
Is this worth taking to adjudication?
Do I have a chance given the circumstances?
Should I wait for the NtO and submit formal reps?
Any help drafting reps if I go that route?

Google maps location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/MTC1u19h4gHHWZCf7




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Hello,

I've been caught out by the exact same trap.
As were all other cars parked alongside, so this is clearly not just a one off mistake by one person.

Also parked in the dark, walked straight to meter, checked operating times 8am to 8pm, did not see any yellow line or other signs to indicate it's not allowed.

The 'legal' sign is 100% not visible when standing facing the meter.
It is high up on a pole facing 180° outwards in the opposite direction.

There are also no restrictions mentioned on their website either
https://www.manchester.gov.uk/directory_record/518553/st_john_street/category/2121/zone_2

I've never even seen a yellow line inside a bay before, so wasn't aware this is something to watch out for!
These particular bays are also diagonally offset from the road, so the line goes left to right, not parallel as normal.

@Toekn6 did you end up taking this any further, or end up having to pay?

"It is, however, a puzzle why parking is banned between 8pm and 8am when one would expect almost nobody would want to park there anyway."
Because MCC has utter contempt for motorists who drive into the city.
They will also be making hundreds of pounds each night from this scam.
It's just an boring street of offices, and used to free overnight.

Thanks

I just paid the fee. I was thinking it wasn’t worth the hassle.