FEW tears are likely to be shed for Excel Parking Services, the Sheffield-based firm that sought – and failed – to obtain a court judgment against a motorist over an unpaid fine at Mansfield's Portland Retail Park.
It is thought the landmark ruling at Mansfield County Court could result in car park operators being forced to stop threatening motorists with exorbitant penalty charges.
But whatever the eventual wider implications, up to 100 motorists who joined forces to protest about the behaviour of Excel Parking in Mansfield have good reason to celebrate.
- Judge says Excel parking fines illegal
The company has been its own worst enemy with its heavy-handed, intimidating and unfair method of operating which has now been ruled to be illegal.
Motorists who knowingly flout parking regulations shouldn't get away with it. But the terms and conditions must be unambiguous and any penalty imposed has to be proportionate.
If the Portland Retail Park ruling helps to ensure this happens everywhere in future the motoring public will eternally in the debt of two local people – Victoria Hetherington who, in her own words, "endured 14 months of hell" after being targeted by Excel Parking, and Mansfield solicitor Martin Lee, who took on her case.
In these times when motorists seem to be discriminated against at every turn, this will be some claim to fame.
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