I met a colleague at Rothwell Services on the A14 recently, as it was equi-distant travelling for both of us. We parked in McDonalds car
Park and had several coffees whilst we discussed a project. We then went outside and checked some samples before leaving. 7 days later I received a "Parking Charge Notice" stating that I had entered McDonalds car park at 10.24 and departed at 12.45. "The maximum period permitted is 1 hour 15 minutes". Parking Eye, who issued the charge, wanted to charge £90, £60 if paid within 14 days. Having checked with my colleague, who also received a charge, neither of us saw any signs relating to any restrictions, I rang Parking Eye, and was asked if I had any receipts for food, but we had paid cash. We therefore contacted the branch and received a hand written receipt from the manageress for 8 coffees and some food, indicating a long stay. I duly copied this to Parking Eye with a covering letter. I have now received a reply from Parking Eye stating "The evidence you provided did not meet the criteria required as stipulated by the landlord of the site."