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Driver Hit With Parking Fine While Taking Coronavirus Test

Driver Hit With Parking Fine While Taking Coronavirus Test

The dad-of-two said he was 'flabbergasted' when he received the fine

Dominic Smithers

Dominic Smithers

A dad has spoken out about receiving a parking fine while getting a coronavirus test.

Geoff Pugh, from Stoke Newington, London, was stunned when he received a £90 penalty charge notice (PCN) from Highview Parking, following an appointment for a swab at Edmonton Green Shopping Centre in Enfield on 7 July.

The 52-year-old photographer said he almost paid the fine straight away, but on closer inspection of where it had been handed out, he decided to contest it.

Speaking about the bizarre incident, Mr Pugh said it was utterly ridiculous.

The dad-of-two said: "At first I thought it was just a genuine fine, so I was about to pay it, but when I looked into where it happened and realised what it was, I was flabbergasted.

"I think it's completely ridiculous to charge someone for looking after the health of their family, neighbours and work colleagues.

Mr Pugh received a £90 fine after getting a coronavirus test.
PA

"I didn't even leave the car the whole time I was there."

Mr Pugh was at the site for around 23 minutes and says he followed the instructions he was given by staff.

However, his car was picked out by the automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) system used by the car park's operator and he was issued with the fine.

A spokesperson for Highview Parking said that any fines handed out incorrectly would be rescinded.

The company's statement read: "The car park terms and conditions and the pay-for-parking system and tariff are set by our client - we do not have any involvement in setting these rules, or indeed when they do or do not charge for parking.

The car park's operator said incorrect fines would be cancelled.
PA

"We cannot confirm whether or not the car park has been repurposed by Enfield Council, just that we have been asked to suspend enforcement activity on specific days and times where they have agreed to provide space for Covid testing. However the car park is still being used for retail during this time.

"As these are specific dates, we rely on notification of those dates in advance.

"July 7 was an occasion where we were only notified that the site had been used for Covid testing, more than a week later, and PCNs were already issued.

"We will cancel any PCNs that have been issued to visitors incorrectly on this or any other specified date where testing is taking place."

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: UK News, Coronavirus