£35 per minute: Driver hit by loading bay fine

Paul Martin parked his van in a ‘no loading zone’ outside a fabric store in Hanley, the city centre of Stoke-on-Trent, before entering the shop for a couple of minutes.

The landscaper from Cheadle was caught by a traffic warden who gave him a ticket for £70 – equating to £35 for each minute he was parked.

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According to a report on StokeonTrentLive, Mr Martin said Stoke-on-Trent City Council have “no common sense” and that the no loading zone makes no sense.

He said: “I parked on the double yellows because all of the parking bays were full. On the opposite side is a bus stop, so there was a sign on the double yellows saying 'no loading at any time' but I didn't notice that when I parked there.

“There was never going to be a bus stopped opposite because they don't run, so the road would not be blocked by my van. Where's the common sense in issuing a fine if there are no buses running?”

Mr Martin did, however, accept that he’d parked on double yellow lines and paid his fine within 14 days, at the reduced rate of £35.

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A spokesman for Stoke-on-Trent City Council said parking restrictions are clearly marked out in the area, which is located just a few metres from lawful pay-and-display bays.

He said: “The vehicle parked on recently repainted double yellow lines, next to a sign highlighting the restriction and alongside double yellow ‘tabs’ on the kerb.

“We have an appeal process for anyone who feels they have received a parking ticket unfairly, but in this case, Mr Martin has paid the fine, therefore accepting liability and closing the case.”

If you’re unsure of where you can and can’t park, read our ultimate guide to parking and make sure you stay on the right side of the law.

Copyright Press Association 2019. Motoring News articles do not reflect the RAC's views unless clearly stated.