Free Traffic Legal Advice

Hi everyone,
I'm feeling incredibly stressed and could really use some advice from anyone who's been through something similar. I've found myself in a really difficult situation with a private Parking Charge Notice (PCN) and now a debt recovery agency is involved.
Here's what happened:
I received a "FINAL NOTIFICATION LETTER" from Euro Car Parks for a PCN issued on 22/02/2025.The amount is now £170.00, being pursued by debt collectors.
The huge problem is that I was completely unaware of this PCN, or any previous letters, until very recently. All the correspondence was sent to an outdated address. I had updated my driving licence with the DVLA around  but I honestly overlooked updating the V5C (log book) for my vehicle at that specific time. I've since rectified this and my V5C is now updated.
This means I was genuinely denied the chance to appeal or pay any reduced amount, which is incredibly frustrating.
Regarding the actual incident:
The PCN claims "The P&D/permit purchased did not cover the date and time of parking." However, I did purchase a valid 4-hour parking ticket
The issue is likely due to the time taken to find a space. I entered the car park and had to spend a considerable amount of time waiting for a suitable parking bay to become available. It's common for there to be an "observation period" to find a space. Crucially, I had my 5-year-old son with me, and for his safety, I couldn't leave him unattended while I drove around looking for a space, or go to the machine before parking properly. As soon as a space was free, I parked safely and went straight to get the ticket. My intention was always to pay, and I did.
I also understand that the BPA (British Parking Association) Code of Practice generally allows for a grace period. While this is usually at the end of parking, it acknowledges that a reasonable amount of time is needed for ingress and egress.
My current situation:
As a single parent, an unexpected demand for £170.00 is a significant financial burden and would cause considerable hardship. I've drafted a detailed letter to Euro Car Parks, asking them to reconsider and allow my appeal, explaining the address issue and the details of the parking incident. I've attached my parking ticket, proof of address change, and V5C update info.
My questions for the group:
 * Has anyone successfully appealed a PCN with Euro Car Parks after the appeal window closed due to an outdated address? What was your experience?
 * How aggressive are debt collectors for private PCNs? What should I expect, and what are my rights?
 * Is there anything else I should include in my appeal letter or be aware of when dealing with Euro Car Parks or the debt collectors?
 

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Time driving around the car park isn’t parking time, did you spend 25 minutes driving around and waiting?

See attached back of PCN

I probably waited for a parking space for 15 mins. I believe I was late leaving due to my son having a tantrum on getting into the car. Unfortunately I no longer have receipt as proof of payment.

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The new home owner at my old address gave them to my ex husband when he went to collect his own mail.

So I send the data change request to ECP not DRP?

Thanks for your help.

Ignore DRP

I probably waited for a parking space for 15 mins. I believe I was late leaving due to my son having a tantrum on getting into the car. Unfortunately I no longer have receipt as proof of payment.

With ANPR the clock starts running from the moment you enter the car park.  In their simple calculation the car has exceeded the 4 hour (and 10 minute exit grace) period by sufficient time to issue a PCN.  (Wording on the signs could be relevant but it's usual that the contract does not commence until parked)

There is a strong argument the contract did not commence at the time of entry - but as detailed above, it may not be needed to argue this point.

Just email the data rectification notice to DPO@eurocarparks.com and make sure you CC in yourself.

Ignore DRP or any other debt collector. Please don't waste our or your own time with information about any debt collectors. Ignore them. They are not a party to ay contract allegedly breached by the driver.

As an aside, is there someone to contact who controls the car park?  e.g. a store  (It may be possible to convince them to rescind it)

The landowner is a church. Is it worth contacting them?