A driver from Plymouth has spoken of his dismay after receiving two separate fines for using a toll bridge located over 270 miles from his residence, despite never having travelled near it. Graham Parsons, from Devon, was issued unpaid toll charges for the Warburton Toll Bridge, which connects Cheshire and Greater Manchester, sparking concerns about the accuracy of its automated payment and enforcement system.
Mr Parsons recounted receiving his initial charge in early June for a crossing supposedly made in March. Upon investigation, he discovered that the ANPR camera system had misread his vehicle's registration plate, differing by just one character from the vehicle actually photographed. This was followed by a second erroneous letter two weeks later, relating to another crossing in April. After submitting a subject access request to parking operator Excel Parking, both charges were eventually cancelled.
His experience is not isolated, with other motorists also reporting significant issues. Russell Barton, a regular user of the bridge from Lowton, received an unpaid toll charge in June for a March crossing, despite possessing email receipts proving he had paid the £1 fee. He described the system as "not fit for purpose" and criticised the escalating nature of the charges, suggesting many might pay them simply to avoid further hassle, even if they are wrongly issued.
The Warburton Toll Bridge saw its charge increase to £1 following recent refurbishment works, which also involved replacing manned toll booths with the ANPR camera system. Peel Ports, the operator, has acknowledged "some genuine customer experience issues" but maintains that the evidence does not indicate a "systemic failure". However, local Labour MPs, Connor Rand (Altrincham and Sale West) and Charlotte Nichols (Warrington North), whose constituencies are partially served by the bridge, have been inundated with complaints.
Mr Rand has called for Peel Ports to engage seriously with the issues and find solutions that work for residents, threatening parliamentary action if the concerns are not addressed. Ms Nichols has also met with Peel Ports, who have pledged to investigate the complaints. The DVLA, which releases driver information to enforcement companies, has apologised for any distress caused by the incorrect sharing of data in cases such as Mr Parsons'.