Thousands of drivers are set to receive refunds for incorrect parking fines issued since 2020. Elmbridge Borough Council in Surrey has launched a refund scheme for motorists who were wrongly issued penalty charge notices in several council-owned car parks.
Council Apologises for Procedural Error
The local authority stated: "Elmbridge Borough Council has opened a refund scheme for customers who were incorrectly issued parking fines in some council car parks. We are very sorry that some parking fines (Penalty Charge Notices) were issued in error due to a procedural issue affecting parking arrangements from 2020 onwards."
Drivers who received a fine in one of the affected car parks during this period may be eligible for a refund. The council urges anyone who believes they may qualify to come forward and submit a claim.
Affected Car Parks
The issue impacted car parks in Esher, Cobham, Hersham, Walton-on-Thames, and Weybridge. The council has not specified the exact number of fines issued incorrectly but described the number as "thousands."
Official Statements
Dawn Crewe, Strategic Director at Elmbridge Borough Council, said: "We are very sorry that a procedural error led to some parking fines being issued incorrectly. Once we identified the issue, we worked quickly to put things right and introduce a refund scheme. We have designed the process to be as straightforward as possible so that anyone affected can reclaim their money, and we aim to issue refunds within two weeks of a valid claim submission."
Councillor Mike Rollings, Leader of Elmbridge Borough Council, added: "I apologise to everyone affected by this mistake. We’re determined to put this right quickly, and we will open a clear, simple refund process as soon as possible so people can get their money back."
Councillor Kirsty Hewens, Portfolio Holder for Enterprise, Parking and Local Economy, commented: "I’m very sorry this happened, and I know it will have caused real inconvenience for some people. That’s why I’m determined to open the refund process ASAP. When it does open, I encourage anyone affected to contact us so we can process their refund. Once a claim is approved, our aim is to pay refunds within 2 weeks."
How to Claim
Eligible drivers should check the council's website for details and submit a claim. The council aims to process refunds within two weeks of a valid claim.
