Hello. Initially I have followed advice of ignoring all PE letters. At first I didn't even know I had them as they looked like junk mail and got filed as such. I am trying not to give anything away that might identify me, so please ask if more detail are required.
I am the RK of the car in question. The car overstayed in a retail park with free parking for 2 hours, by no more than half an hour. I have a receipt from the first shop. I have the final shop receipt timed minutes before finally leaving, having spent about 50 mins to an hour in there. We were genuine shoppers.
I have tried to find out the landowner details. I've got as far the estate agents but no further. Stores head offices are reluctant to give me email addresses of customer services managers let alone names and all have said they aren't interested in helping getting the charge quashed as they only rent the properties.
Now I am at the stage of Debt Recovery Plus, Notice of intended court action. The final payment date is very soon. I have called PE four times over the months asking to speak to someone, find out the land owner and asked for confirmation that they have permission to issue charges. Each time the call was ended by them. I spoke again today and as I couldn't give my ref no. they would only suggest trying an appeal even at this very late stage, although they wouldn't say if it would be considered.
I am now concerned as I have been reading that PE have become litigious and suspect that I will now receive a Letter before court action any day.
Any advice on my next move?
I am thinking;
Try an appeal today, if only to get a POPLA code
POPLA appeal if I get a code
Lose appeal? Then pay up or let it go to court and show that I was a genuine shopper and argue the charge.
All advice appreciated. Thanks.
( I have posted this on money saving expert as well as time is of the essence! )
Letters received;
PCN
PCN reminder
Letter saying requirements of schedule 4 now met
Letter Before Action
Debt Recovery Plus Demand for payment
Debt Recovery Plus Notice of intended court action-unpaid parking charge