Fuming Scottish man vows 'never to return to airport' after fine for three-point turn

Ian Simpson flew to Bristol and was left frustrated by the experience.
Ian Simpson flew to Bristol and was left frustrated by the experience. -Credit:Ian Simpson


A disgruntled Scottish man has sworn off ever using Bristol Airport again after receiving a fine for executing a three-point turn. Ian Simpson, from Glasgow, flew to Bristol in February and received the fine on his return journey to the airport.

Mr Simpson, who had rented a car in Bristol, stated that his satnav directed him legally onto an airport road while looking for the correct location. He soon realised, around 25 yards down the road, that there were no-entry signs, leaving him no choice but to turn around and find the correct route.

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He explained that a month later he received a fine in the post. Despite attempts to appeal the charge, he was given no satisfactory explanation as to what he should have done when faced with the no-entry signs.

This left Mr Simpson feeling greatly frustrated.

In his own words, Mr Simpson explained: I was hit with the £100 fine for 'stopping' in a no-stopping zone. I admit that I shouldn't have stopped but I needed to do a three-point turn, and no one has told me what else I could have done," reports Bristol Live.

He further detailed his dissatisfaction, stating: "It is frustrating that I was fined and worse that I was not given a clear answer on what I could have done to avoid it. I regard the fine as nothing but entrapment."

Concluding his disapproval, he declared: "I will never fly to Bristol Airport again, I will deliberately fly to and from an alternative airport, even if it is more expensive. I feel like the fines are extorting the public."

Mr Simpson expressed his frustration over the lack of clarity, saying: "I fail to understand what to do. The fine stung me."

"I believe that I haven't done anything wrong. I did the three-point turn to avoid going in a no-entry area, the turn took 40 seconds. This is a poor showing from Bristol Airport."

A spokesperson for Bristol Airport commented on the issue, stating: "All of the internal roadways at the Airport have experienced a longstanding issue with vehicles stopping in unsafe areas. This poses a high risk to the safety of our customers, colleagues and business partners and causes delay and congestion to other road users."

"Signs across the site further underline the message to all customers. Breaking rules, such as ignoring signs to the exit, attempting to drive into roads marked 'no entry', and stopping on double-red lines, may result in drivers facing fines. The rules are enforced through a combination of fixed cameras and mobile patrols."

"In addition to the signs we have on-site, maps, videos, and guides of how to access the Airport and our car parks are available on our website. Facilities are available close to the terminal for vehicles picking up (Short Stay and Pick Up) and dropping off (Drop and Go) passengers, and a waiting zone offering free parking for up to 60 minutes is available."

"This free car park is located by the entrance to Silver Zone and is linked to the terminal by a frequent shuttle bus service."