"They are trapping me": Fury over parking charge notices issued to Riva Showbar performers

David Billington, manager of ticket sales and events at Preston's Riva Showbar, claims that he has been unfairly receiving parking charge notices for unloading deliveries and equipment needed for live performances.
Ticket sales manager David claims he uses the back entrance for deliveries and moving heavy equipment for performances at the venueTicket sales manager David claims he uses the back entrance for deliveries and moving heavy equipment for performances at the venue
Ticket sales manager David claims he uses the back entrance for deliveries and moving heavy equipment for performances at the venue

The venue, on Tithebarn street, sits above St John's shopping centre and shares a back entrance with popular food chain Heron Foods.

David claims that he is being 'trapped' by ES Parking Enforcement Limited - who have handed him a £100 fine on multiple occasions for what he describes as delivering goods to the premises.

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He said: "There is a sign stating that it is a loading bay meant for deliveries, but yet we have had a few parking tickets handed to us even as late as 10pm. Our artists that perform have no other way to unload their heavy equipment as it goes to the back of our stage. We can't use the front entrance because it is a one way street.

David feels 'trapped' by parking finesDavid feels 'trapped' by parking fines
David feels 'trapped' by parking fines

"It is confusing because it says the area is meant for deliveries so it doesn't make any sense that we are getting fines for dropping off equipment. I have contested my previous parking tickets and I have been let off - but it is just continuing. I don't see the problem because nobody else parks there it is so quiet."

The back entrance, off Old Vicarage, Preston, is land not owned by the council meaning parking charges can be enforced by ES Parking Limited.

The signage states that it is private land that should be 'kept clear at all times' with no stopping, but David suggests this should not include deliveries.

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He added: "I have asked for passes to park at the front which I have been denied access to. I cant get up to the venue down Crooked Lane from Lancaster road because it is a one way street, so this is the only way I can unload deliveries into the venue.

"I am sick of this now. I have no other way to load and unload. Especially because there is some heavy gear that we need to carry. I am fed up with them trapping me with fines when I have no other access to the building."

When the Post contacted ES Parking Limited, a spokesperson said: "Mr Billington is aware of the terms and conditions on the site. Any vehicle clearly loading or unloading will not receive a parking charge notice.

"However, any vehicle that is parked up and locked up and potentially causing an obstruction or health and safety hazard may be subject to a parking charge notice."

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