Cup runneth over - parking problems

I have recently received a Parking Charge Notice from Parking Eye relating to the Sandbanks Hotel in Poole where I parked for approximately one hour whilst in the hotel for coffee. The charge is £90, but £60 if paid by the 29 March.

The normal parking barrier had been removed (I assumed for repair as this is often the case) and the parking charge notice states that there is signage stating that it is a permit holder/authorised vehicle car park. I did not notice this signage and no one in the hotel brought the new system to my attention (I have recently returned from holiday and assume the change took place while I was away).

I believe I have seen correspondence in your excellent column regarding such charges and I am proposing to send a letter and cheque for £10 to Parking Eye as compensation for a minor breach of contract. Is this the correct course of action?

Asked on 14 March 2010 by RR, via email

Answered by Honest John
Take the matter up with some considerable anger with the management of the hotel. Point out that as a paying customer of the hotel you were effectively mugged, you absolutely refuse to pay, and if the hotel or Parking Eye wishes to take the matter to court (which has to be a county court convenient to you) you will be only to happy to defend yourself and will request all out of pocket expenses and a reasonable sum for your wasted time.
Tags: parking advice
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