Hi all, looking for advice on a Smart Parking PCN and whether I have grounds to continue challenging it.
Timeline:
* Parking event took place on 19/03/2026.
* Operator: Smart Parking Ltd.
* ANPR-controlled car park (no windscreen ticket).
* I purchased 120 minutes of parking and have proof of payment.
* Smart Parking alleges the vehicle was on site for 131 minutes, meaning an 11-minute overstay.
Parking Charge Notice:
* PCN number: SP59252475.
* Notice issue date: 30/03/2026.
* Notice was sent by post.
* I did not physically receive the notice until considerably later.
* The notice relies on Schedule 4 Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 keeper liability wording.
Initial appeal:
I appealed on 19/04/2026.
My appeal raised the following points:
1. Parking was paid for in full.
2. Any delay was due to vehicle mechanical issues beyond the driver’s control.
3. The vehicle has an ongoing fault and I have evidence of a dashboard check engine warning light dated 18/04/2026.
4. The PCN appeared potentially non-compliant with the Schedule 4 Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 timing requirements for keeper liability.
5. I did not expressly identify the driver in my appeal.
Smart Parking response:
* Appeal rejected.
* Rejection received by email on 08/05/2026.
* Smart Parking stated:
* 120 minutes were purchased.
* Vehicle remained on site for 131 minutes.
* Additional parking time could have been purchased before exit.
* They did not appear to address the POFA timing argument in their rejection.
* They advised I could appeal to the IAS within 28 days.
Current issue:
I attempted to submit an IAS appeal using:
* PCN: SP59252475
However, the IAS website repeatedly returns:
“Your PCN or Registration Number has not been recognised.”
I have:
* Screenshots of the error.
* Screen recordings showing multiple attempts.
* Screenshots showing that the IAS operator directory lists Smart Parking but provides no visible email address, website link or telephone number, whereas other operators appear to have contact details listed.
I have now contacted Smart Parking explaining that:
* I am trying to exercise the IAS appeal right referred to in their rejection letter.
* The IAS portal does not recognise the PCN.
* I require assistance before the IAS deadline expires.
Questions:
1. Does the POFA timing point appear to have any merit based on the dates above?
2. Have I done anything in my appeal that would likely be interpreted as identifying the driver?
3. Has anyone experienced Smart Parking PCNs not being recognised by the IAS portal?
4. Would you pursue the IAS appeal if access is eventually restored?
5. Are there any additional arguments or procedural issues I should be considering?
Any thoughts appreciated.
