Readers have reacted to changes at a 'problem' car park that has seen dozens of fines over the last six months - with some saying that drivers should "avoid it at all costs".

It was announced in September that Feethams Car Park at the DL1 complex in the town would be improving its services for motorists, including signage highlighting any time limits on payment, £70 cap on overdue payment fees, and consideration for drivers with accessibility issues.

Following complaints, action has now been taken after Darlington MP Lola McEvoy met with representatives involved in the car park and has agreed on a range of initial measures to combat the high number of fines at the site.

The inside of the DL1 car parkThe inside of the DL1 car park (Image: NORTHERN ECHO) After discussions with Excel representatives, the MP has received assurances that a new contactless payment system will be installed at the site within weeks.

This is intended to address issues that many customers had reported with the app required to make payment previously, and with internet connectivity issues.

Readers react to changes in DL1 Feethams in Darlington

But drivers have been left unconvinced after reacting to the new changes at the DL1 car park - with some warning that fellow motorists should "stay away", while others should "avoid at all costs".

The DL1 car park in DarlingtonThe DL1 car park in Darlington (Image: NORTHERN ECHO) One driver, who didn't wish to be named, said: "Stay away. When their money stops rolling in they might change their attitude towards the drivers."

However, it wasn't all negative for the car park, with one driver saying: "It's improved slightly - and I'm going to give them another chance."

What has changed in the car park?

  • Clear signage highlighting any time limits on payment
  • A £70 cap on overdue payment fees
  • Additional steps to ensure letters have actually been delivered to people before any enforcement action can begin against them
  • Greater consideration for drivers with accessibility issues

What has the car park said?

Will Hurley, CEO of the International Parking Community, added: “I feel very positive after meeting with Darlington’s MP Lola McEvoy.  I can share that our work is leading to swift and practical changes that will be implemented shortly.”

What has Lola McEvoy MP said? 

Ms McEvoy said: “I have received assurances that Excel Parking will follow these new industry guidelines, which in my view should improve drivers’ experience at DL1. 

“Some of the cases brought to my attention are shocking and must not be repeated. I will continue to monitor feedback from residents and businesses to ensure this is the case.

Most read:

Get more from The Northern Echo with a digital subscription. Get access to the latest offer for annual or monthly subscription. Click here for details.

“I will also maintain constructive contact with all DL1 stakeholders I have spoken with to identify any further measures to improve to ensure our motorists are treated fairly. 

“I would like to thank the many residents who have raised their cases with me over the past two months. They have all been reviewed and this information has allowed me to pursue change armed with your evidence. Where there are outstanding issues I will continue to investigate them. 

“I'm pleased that the IPC has committed to work with me on challenging unfair parking fines, so if you are a Darlington constituent and have any negative experiences with car parking fees please do email me: Lola.McEvoy.mp@parliament.uk.”