An unauthorised car park operating near Stansted Airport has continued to grow and accept bookings despite a stop notice being issued. Customers have reported returning from holidays to find their vehicles damaged and dirty.
Uttlesford District Council stated that the case is complex, involving various agencies. The authority said it would continue to monitor the site and assess new reports to determine if they fall under the existing enforcement notice. Essex Trading Standards reported not receiving enough complaints to warrant a formal investigation.
Travel Extra Deals Ltd, which operates a comparison website used by some of the car park's customers, has issued the operator with a final warning. The company indicated it would cease sending bookings if further complaints arise and would review unresolved cases, offering refunds where appropriate. They extended an apology on behalf of the operator.
Attempts to obtain comment from SC Parking Ltd, the company listed as the operator, and its new director, Abdul Rehman, were unsuccessful. Park Pilot Ltd, named on customer confirmation emails as the service provider, and management at New Farm, where the car park is located, also did not respond to inquiries.
The Radisson Blu Hotel at Stansted Airport acknowledged awareness of concerns, with its general manager, Dinesh Kunder, clarifying that the hotel has no commercial agreement or affiliation with the car park company. Stansted Airport's managing director, Gareth Powell, advised customers to use authorised parking providers, check reviews, and report any concerns to Essex Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice consumer helpline.