The Secret to Beating Your Gatwick Airport Parking Fine
The Secret to Beating Your Gatwick Airport Parking Fine
Receiving a Parking Charge Notice (PCN) from Gatwick Airport can feel frustrating, especially after a long trip. Your first instinct might be to just pay it to make the problem go away. But wait!
Many Gatwick airport parking fines are appealed successfully every day. The key is knowing your rights and following the correct process.
At Comparetheairportparking.com, we’re not just about helping you find the best parking deals; we’re also here to help you navigate issues like unfair parking charges. This definitive guide will walk you through exactly how to challenge and appeal a Gatwick airport parking fine, with a high chance of success.
Step 1: Don't Panic or Pay Immediately (Yet)
This is the most critical rule. Paying the fine is seen as an admission of liability. Once you pay, you lose all rights to appeal.
Instead, take a deep breath and move to step 2. The initial, reduced fee is an incentive for you to pay quickly, but you typically have 28 days to decide, and the appeal process pauses this timer.
Step 2: Understand Why You Were Fined & Who Issued It
Gatwick Airport parking is managed by APCOA Parking UK, one of the largest private parking firms. Your PCN will likely come from them.
Common reasons for a PCN at Gatwick include:
· Overstaying your pre-booked parking time.
· Parking in a designated area (e.g., a drop-off zone) for longer than the permitted time.
· Entering the incorrect vehicle registration details when you booked.
· Losing your ticket.
Identify the exact reason on your PCN, as this will form the basis of your appeal.
Step 3: Gather Your Evidence (The "Proof" to Win Your Appeal)
A strong appeal is a evidence-based appeal. Before you write a single word, collect:
· A copy of your Parking Charge Notice (PCN).
· Your parking booking confirmation email.
· Proof of payment for your original parking booking.
· Photographs: Of the signs where you parked, your car in situ, any mitigating circumstances (e.g., broken-down car, unclear signage).
· Receipts/Tickets: From your flight, showing your travel times.
· Diary Entries: Note down exactly what happened, when, and why.
Step 4: Make Your Formal Appeal to APCOA
This is your first official appeal, made directly to the operator, APCOA. You must do this within 28 days of the PCN issue date.
How to structure your appeal letter/email:
1. State the Facts Clearly: Include your PCN number, vehicle registration, and the date of the incident.
2. Explain Why the Charge is Wrong: Be clear, concise, and polite. For example:
· Incorrect Details: "I accidentally entered one wrong digit when booking. Here is my booking confirmation for the correct date, proving my intent to park legitimately."
· Mitigating Circumstances: "My flight was severely delayed, as proven by the attached flight itinerary. I had no control over this."
· Unclear Signage: "The signs stating the terms and conditions were obscured/not clear from where I parked."
3. Attach Your Evidence: Reference all the documents and photos you are including.
What if APCOA Rejects Your Appeal?
Don't worry; this is not the end. If APCOA rejects your appeal, they will send you a letter of rejection. This letter also contains a POPLA Code.
Step 5: Appeal to POPLA (The Independent Adjudicator)
POPLA (Parking on Private Land Appeals) is an independent body that will review your case fairly. This is your most powerful step.
· You have 28 days from the date of APCOA's rejection letter to appeal to POPLA.
· Use the code provided – it's free for you.
· Submit all the same evidence you sent to APCOA. POPLA is independent and often rules in the motorist's favour, especially if signage was unclear or your mitigating circumstances are valid.
A POPLA ruling is final and binding on the operator. If POPLA rules in your favour, the charge is cancelled.
Expert Tips from Comparetheairportparking.com
· Always Double-Check Your VRM: A huge percentage of Gatwick fines are due to simple typos when booking. Use our site, Comparetheairportparking.com, to not only find great deals but also to book with providers who often have more lenient grace periods.
· Know the Grace Periods: The BPA (British Parking Association) Code of Practice mandates a 10-minute grace period after your parking expires before a fine can be issued. If you were only a few minutes late, cite this.
· Stay Polite and Professional: Anger and abuse will hurt your case. Stick to the facts.
Conclusion: Be Prepared and Persistent
Appealing a Gatwick airport parking fine is a winnable battle if you are prepared, evidence-based, and follow the process. Use the steps and template above to build a strong case.
And next time you travel, let us help you avoid the hassle altogether. Use Comparetheairportparking.com to find, compare, and book the best and most reliable parking deals at Gatwick and other UK airports. We make it easy to park with confidence.