Council Name: Hounslow Council
Google Map Link:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/uSSYfGFhCF1ANCha9 Location: Arnold Crescent (iselworth)
I previously received a parking ticket for allegedly parking in a restricted zone. I submitted an informal appeal, explaining that the parking bay markings were nearly invisible and that I was unfamiliar with the match-day restriction due to my short time working at the stadium. Unfortunately, my appeal was rejected. From the date of this upload i will have 12 days to make a 50% payment of my PCN.
Given this rejection, I am now seeking advice on whether I should escalate the appeal formally and what the best approach would be. I have attached photographs of the location, showing the unclear markings. The restrictions on this street only apply on match days, which is why the white permit parking bays exist. If there were no match-day restrictions, these bays would not be necessary. Based on this, my understanding was that the restrictions applied only to the designated white bays. Therefore, I assumed I was permitted to park in the only unmarked spot on the road, which, although technically marked, was not visible. Additionally, every other spot on the road that did not contain a double yellow or single yellow line was clearly marked with white boxes, reinforcing my understanding that the restriction applied specifically to those bays.
I would appreciate any insights on whether I have a strong case and the next steps I should take. Thank you!
initial challenge:
I parked my vehicle in what appeared to be an unmarked spot on this road. Throughout this street, designated parking bays are clearly identifiable, albeit faintly, by white painted lines. However, the location in which I parked had markings that were essentially invisible, with only a faint trace of white paint that I noticed much later upon returning to my vehicle. This minor trace provided no indication of any restriction, nor was it recognizable as a designated bay.
While I acknowledge signage indicates parking restrictions during match days, my reasonable interpretation was that this restriction applied solely to clearly marked parking bays. Having worked regularly at the stadium for six months, I have always adhered strictly to the indicated rules. Unfortunately, on this particular day, all clearly marked bays were occupied, leaving me no option but to park in what appeared to be an unmarked and unrestricted area.
The unclear and insufficient marking at the location unfairly led to this penalty, causing me considerable inconvenience and loss of a day's work. To support my claim, I have attached photographs highlighting the inadequately marked area in question.
I respectfully request that this parking ticket be canceled due to the lack of clear markings, and I kindly urge that markings on this road be properly maintained in the future to prevent similar issues.
Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to your timely response.
Rejection letter:
Thank you for writing to us regarding the above Penalty Charge Notice.
We have carefully considered what you say but we have decided not to cancel your
Penalty Charge Notice (PCN).
Your vehicle was parked in a ‘Resident permit holders parking only past this point’ area,
which forms part of the surrounding Controlled Parking Zone. Motorists are made aware
that they are within a permit parking area by signposts positioned at each entry point to the
area. In addition, there is clear signage at the entrance to the Controlled Parking Zone
informing motorists of the restrictions in place.
You were given a PCN for parking without a permit that was both valid and clearly
displayed. Even if you have a permit, you have to display it so that a Civil Enforcement
Officer can see all its details.
We have noted the points raised in your letter. However, there is clear signage located at
the entrance to the Controlled Parking Zone informing motorist of the restrictions in place. It
is the driver’s responsibility to be aware of any and all parking restrictions before choosing
to park at a certain location and to ensure their vehicle is parked legally.
The enclosed photos help to show why your Penalty Charge Notice was issued.
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