The IAS has dismissed my appeal.
Ocean Parking issued a Parking Charge Notice dated 07/01/2026 for an alleged incident on 06/11/2025. The notice states it is issued to my vehicle. They claim this delay was due to issues with NHS Fleet Solutions not providing my details correctly in a timely manner, as this is a lease vehicle. However, I question whether delays between the operator and a third-party lease company should prejudice the keeper/driver.
I appealed and provided proof that I spent more than £10 in the store on the day in question, which entitled me to a parking voucher.
The system requires customers to scan the voucher at one of their machines, which registers the vehicle registration number and confirms that no payment is required. When the voucher is scanned, the machine displays a message stating that you do not need to pay, and then resets for the next customer. It does not issue any receipt or confirmation of the scan.
My appeal was rejected. Their position is that their machines “do not make mistakes” and that my vehicle registration number was not recorded in their system during the relevant period.
I am absolutely certain that I scanned the voucher. However, because the machines provide no confirmation or receipt, I am being denied my appeal on the basis that I cannot produce evidence that they themselves do not make available. This appears to place an impossible evidential burden on the consumer and raises concerns regarding fairness and transparency.
I also appealed on the basis that:
-I was a genuine customer (with proof of purchase over £10).
-I have been using this store for over a year. I attend almost weekly. I have never previously been issued with a PCN at this site. I provided a bank statement.
At this stage, I am considering whether to simply wait and see if they issue a Letter Before Claim and pursue the matter through the small claims court, should it reach that stage.
Any advice would be appreciated and would be able to provide any additional details.
*I am not the registered keeper but when submitting my appeal I did declare myself as the driver.
