The Ombudsman's final decision
Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about a Penalty Charge Notice and the removal of the complainant’s car to the pound. This is because the problem has been resolved.
The complaint
The complainant, whom I refer to as Ms X, complains about a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) and removal of her car to the pound. Ms X says she cannot pay the fine and needs her car.
The Ombudsman’s role and powers
We investigate complaints about ‘maladministration’ and ‘service failure’. In this statement, I have used the word fault to refer to these. We provide a free service but must use public money carefully. We may decide not to start an investigation if we are satisfied with the actions an organisation has taken or proposes to take. (Local Government Act 1974, section 24A(7), as amended)
How I considered this complaint
I considered information provided by Ms X and the Council. This includes an update from the Council. I also considered our Assessment Code.
My assessment
The Council issued a PCN because Ms X parked and used an expired Blue Badge. The Council removed the car to the pound because it decided the car was parked illegally. The Council told Ms X she would need to pay the PCN and a release fee to retrieve the car. It explained Ms X could then appeal and, if successful, the Council would refund the money. The Council wrote to Ms X to say she owed £505 (as of 30 April).
Ms X did not pay or appeal. However, the Council returned the car, cancelled the PCN and Ms X is not required to make any payments.
Final decision
We will not investigate this complaint because the matter has been resolved. The Council returned the car, without Ms X making any payments, and it has cancelled the PCN.
Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman