A driver expressed frustration after being fined for using a toll bridge located hundreds of miles from his home. The individual, who asked not to be identified, received an unpaid toll charge in early June for a crossing in March, despite living approximately 270 miles away from the Warburton Toll Bridge.
He stated that he had to investigate the charge and discovered that the automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) camera system had misread his vehicle's registration plate, with the incorrect plate differing by only one character from his actual plate.
Two weeks after the initial notice, a second charge arrived for a separate crossing in April. Following these erroneous charges, the driver submitted a subject access request to the parking operator, Excel Parking, which led to the cancellation of both fines.
He mentioned that he was fortunate to know the steps required to resolve the issue, and a Facebook group dedicated to similar experiences with the bridge had been instrumental in guiding him. He also expressed greater sympathy for local residents who must use the bridge regularly.
The driver also raised concerns regarding the release of his personal information by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). A DVLA spokesperson stated they were "sorry for any distress caused" and confirmed that the company which requested the information had identified the notices as errors and canceled the charges. The toll bridge previously charged 12 pence per crossing but was increased to £1 after recent refurbishment works. Manned toll booths were replaced with an ANPR camera system as part of these upgrades.