An investigation is underway into whether planning permission was sought to install cameras at Bolton Wanderers FC ground to enforce new parking charges.
A councillor who campaigns against automatic number plate recognition cameras, has contacted Bolton Council to ask if planning permission/consent has been sought for:
- Installation of ANPR cameras mounted to masts
- Installation of car parking ticket machines
- Installation of car parking restrictions notice boards
The club brought in parking enforcement company Parkingeye 'to help deliver a more efficient parking system in line' and towards a cashless one.
Bolton Council say they are investigating the claims to see if there has been 'actionable breach of planning control'.
Parkingeye say it will work with Bolton Wanderers to seek any permissions needed retrospectively - but added planning consent does not invalidate parking charges.
Neil Furey is a councillor for Skelmersdale North in West Lancashire. He is also a campaigner against companies installing ANPR systems and brought the issue to Bolton Council's attention. Cllr Furey said if planning permission has not been sought than people should not be charged.
“This should not be happening, and people should not be being charged and fined until planning permission has been granted,” he said.
“It’s a total disregard for local planning rules. The whole system needs an overhaul, and the government is looking into it. It’s long overdue.”
Cllr Toby Hewitt, Bolton Council Cabinet Member for Strategic Housing and Planning, said: “While I cannot comment on individual cases, our enforcement officers will investigate suspected breaches of the planning rules.
“Where necessary, the council will use its enforcement powers to address any inappropriate or unauthorised development.
“As a council we appreciate members of the public reporting suspected planning breaches, and this can be done via the council website."
A spokesperson for Parkingeye said: “Planning permission for equipment is discrete and separate to the enforceability of parking charges we issue.
“Parking charges are issued when a motorist breaks the terms and conditions of the contract that are clearly brought to their attention upon entering the car park and highly visible signage around the car park outlining the terms and conditions to park on site.
“Whether or not the method of identifying those motorists who breach these terms has planning permission has no bearing on the enforceability of the Consumer Legislation compliant terms and conditions. The motorist agrees to these terms by entering and parking in the car park.
“Parkingeye will work with Bolton Wanderers to ensure any council requested permissions are sought retrospectively where needed.”
A BWFC spokesperson said: “We understand the contractors have addressed issues around planning and we will continue to work closely with them to try and provide a fair and well-run parking operation at the stadium.”
Cllr Hewitt added: “I can understand how people can be frustrated by the use of ANPR. Organisations employing companies that use ANPR should think carefully about the impacts these will have.
“More broadly, the use of ANPR systems can lead to legal challenges, in particular with regard to the privacy implications. This has been highlighted by recent cases in London challenging the use of ANPR by the Mayor within Ultra Low Emissions Zones and for Congestion Charging.”
The new system has already sparked something of a debate among fans.
New parking changes at Bolton Wanderers receive mixed response from fans
Although there has been no increase to match day parking fees, car park season tickets cost £159 last season and covered every competition – but after they were discontinued, fans will now pay £184 for the 23 home league games, with the extra £8 charge that it will cost for the length of a single match for each home game in the cups.
The revenue from the parking fees will at least go back into the club, and any potential parking notice charges for the first couple of games will be waived to allow for a bedding in period for the new system.
Parking is still free for hotel residents and conference guests.
If you have a story or something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at lewis.finney@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @lewisfinney18
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