A Norwich-based taxi company, U-Ride, has raised concerns over what it describes as unfair parking fines imposed on its drivers at Norwich Train Station. The firm claims that as many as 30 of its drivers have received £100 fines for picking up and dropping off passengers, making them hesitant to enter the car park.
The issue highlights growing concerns over enforcement policies affecting taxi drivers, who already face strict regulations. Recently, taxi drivers were warned to keep plates clean or face £100 fines, further demonstrating the financial challenges imposed on private hire drivers.
Despite assurances from National Car Parks (NCP) and Greater Anglia, who oversee the car park, that the issue has been resolved, U-Ride’s CEO, Nazia Sheikh, argues that the damage has already been done.
Nazia Sheikh stated:
"People are scared about entering the train station because of these fines."
Concerns Over Multiple Trips and Penalties
U-Ride drivers frequently conduct multiple short trips to and from the station, with each stop lasting only five to six minutes. However, Sheikh claims that despite having tracking data to prove their limited stay, drivers are still penalized due to the system’s handling of multiple entries.
Nazia Sheikh further questioned the fairness of the system:
"If taxi drivers are facing such issues despite having tracking data to challenge the fines, what about regular commuters and visitors who lack the resources to contest these decisions?"
Parking Policies and Official Response
NCP charges £2.20 per hour and up to £13 for a full-day ticket at Norwich Train Station. Private hire vehicles are allowed multiple entries, provided they remain within a 20-minute grace period.
A spokesperson from Greater Anglia acknowledged a past issue with the system:
"We are aware of a previous issue at Norwich where some number plates were not captured leaving the station. We have resolved this problem."
Both Greater Anglia and NCP confirmed that an appeals process is available for drivers who believe they have been wrongly fined.
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