Residents warned by Merton Council not to sell black market visitors' parking permits

Under the current scheme, residents can purchase a £165 visitor’s parking permit from Merton Council but there is no system to place to check whether the permits are being used for genuine visitors.

Visitors permits had cost £140 but, since April, Merton Council has asked new users of a visitors’ permit pay a additional £25 administration fee – £165 in total – while existing users will continue pay the normal £140.

Camilla de la Bedoyere, who lives in Merton Hall Road in Merton Park, said it had become commonplace for motorists from outside of the borough and park in her road before walking to nearby Wimbledon Chase station.

Mrs de la Bedoyere said: “Some of the people who use them are stealthy commuters.... I’m guessing £165 is regarded as extremely cheap by these people, who probably pay considerably more than that to any residents who are happy to trade in permits.

“This could be a thriving business and I am contemplating setting up a website to connect residents and other fake ‘visitors’.

“The council could use the new £25 administration charge to identify the misuse of visitors’ permits and prevent it.”

Merton’s director of environment and regeneration, Chris Lee, said the council would not sanction any profiteering from the visitors’ permit scheme.

Mr Lee said: “These types of permits are solely for use by our residents and their visitors. They are not designed or allowed to be used by people looking for a more economical way to park in the area.

“We take all allegations concerning the misuse of permits very seriously and ask anyone with concerns to contact parking services."

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