Taxi drivers and passengers react to new £100 fines at airport drop-off zone.
Aberdeen Airport has recently implemented a strict enforcement policy regarding parking and drop-off procedures, introducing a £100 fine for violators at a popular drop-off location outside the Holiday Inn Express. This new regulation aims to curb unauthorized parking and ensure that the area is used appropriately by hotel guests.
Details of the new policy
The newly erected sign at the Holiday Inn Express clearly states that the area is designated for hotel customers only, warning that violators will face hefty fines. If the fine is not paid within 28 days, an additional charge of £70 will be imposed.
Notably, even blue badge holders are not exempt from these fines, raising concerns among local residents and taxi drivers alike.
Vehicle Control Services Limited, the company responsible for managing this area, claims to provide cost-effective parking solutions for both public and private sectors. However, the sudden appearance of these restrictions has left many questioning the rationale behind them, especially as the road has become a favored drop-off point for taxi drivers and passengers looking to avoid airport charges.
Taxi drivers express concerns
Kevin Sherwin, a taxi driver with 18 years of experience, voiced his frustrations regarding the new policy. He explained that many passengers prefer to be dropped off at the Holiday Inn Express to save on the £5.50 drop-off fee at the terminal. Sherwin expressed uncertainty about the legality of the new restrictions and questioned how enforcement will be carried out. He stated, “If someone gets into my taxi and says Holiday Inn Express, I’m not going to say, ‘Is it the Holiday Inn Express or are you just using that as an excuse?’”
With the introduction of low emission zones and bus gates in the area, Sherwin believes that this new regulation will only add to the frustrations of drivers and passengers alike. He emphasized the need for clarity on the enforcement process and the reasons behind these sudden changes.
Alternatives for passengers
Passengers now face the dilemma of choosing between the new drop-off fines or utilizing the airport’s paid parking options. The express drop-off zone directly outside the main terminal charges £5.50 for a 15-minute stay, with additional fees for extended parking. For those needing to park longer, the Short Stay car park is recommended, while the Long Stay car park offers a free pick-up option for up to one hour.
As the airport continues to promote various parking options, the recent changes have sparked a significant conversation among taxi drivers and travelers. Many are left wondering how these new policies will impact their travel experience and whether they will lead to increased costs and inconveniences.
