A PARKING company boss has appeared in court for flouting consumer rights.

Alan Robert Naylor stood in the dock at Southampton Crown Court today.

The director of the local cruise and airport parking provider EZEPARKING Ltd had previously pleaded guilty to breaching consumer protection legislation.

On two separate incidents, the company's staff used Eastgate Street multi-storey car park to park customers' vehicles for a total of 11 days each time. 

Miss Recorder Kate Brunner QC ordered Naylor, of Brownwich Lane in Fareham to pay a £500 financial penalty, EZEPARKING to pay £4,000.

Compensation "in the region of £200" must be paid to two victims.

Meanwhile, £3,000 in costs must be paid to Southampton City Council

Commenting on the case, Cabinet Member for Green City & Place, Councillor Steve Leggett, said: “Southampton City Council takes the misuse of our Parking assets seriously, and will take appropriate enforcement action when needed. It’s essential we protect valuable parking spaces for fee-paying customers.

“Local consumers also need to know that we will offer them the protection they need and help to reinforce their rights when needed. 

“This conviction is a great result for both our Parking Services and Legal teams and sends out a clear message to others who would look to break the law, ensuring companies operating in the city give customers the services they have paid for.”