Drivers have been warned about rogue car parking companies operating near a major UK airport which risks leaving vehicles stranded and motorists out of pocket.
North Somerset Council's Trading Standards Team recently warned drivers heading to Bristol Airport to make sure they double check their parking operator is legitimate before booking.
The warning comes after numerous reports found multiple cases of travellers being left stranded and vehicles put at risk by deceptive parking operators.
Trading Standards officials stated that these companies often masquerade as legitimate businesses with professional websites and competitive prices, while having no official connection to the airport.
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NORTH SOMERSET COUNCIL
Complaints received by North Somerset Council detailed a range of serious issues after customers handed over their keys to these operators.
In some cases, vehicles were discovered abandoned in fields or on local highways without security measures in place. Some customers even reported finding unexplained mileage on their vehicles' odometers, suggesting unauthorised use during their absence.
Other reported problems include damaged vehicles and lost keys. Shockingly, many travellers have found themselves stranded at the airport upon return, with parking operators becoming uncontactable and failing to address complaints.
Councillor James Clayton said: "We are seeing an increasing number of travellers who use Bristol Airport being misled by rogue parking companies.
"These operators not only compromise the safety of your vehicle but also exploit your trust with deceptive practices. It is crucial for travellers to be diligent and choose parking services wisely."
The councillor emphasised that their priority is ensuring consumers are properly informed and protected. He urged anyone encountering suspicious parking offers to report them to Citizens Advice for investigation.
Trading Standards Manager Gareth Mellors added that the team was "committed to protecting consumers from these deceptive practices" and will be working closely with partner agencies to address issues through enforcement of the law and planning rules.
He stressed that while formal action would be taken against rogue traders when sufficient evidence exists, customers must also take precautions.
"While we will pursue formal action against rogue traders when there is sufficient evidence to do so, remember, your peace of mind and the safety of your vehicle are paramount," Mellors added.
He advised travellers to "always choose parking services from well-known, reputable providers, such as the airport's own parking options".
To protect against rogue parking operators, authorities have issued several key safety measures for travellers. Passengers are advised to book parking only through trusted platforms, particularly those linked directly from the airport's website.
Travellers should check trusted review sites and be wary of companies with limited or negative feedback. Companies should have verifiable physical addresses and proper contact numbers, not just mobile phones.
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Drivers have been urged to only book airport parking through secure means
PAPayment should be made using secure methods like credit cards that offer fraud protection. Legitimate parking services typically hold industry accreditation from organisations like the British Parking Association or Park Mark.
Anyone who suspects they have encountered an illegal parking operation or fallen victim to a scam is urged to take immediate action.
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