Gatwick Airport travellers must watch out for parking scams this summer, warn police

Holidaymakers flying from Gatwick Airport should watch out for 'meet and greet' parking scams this summer, police say. Sussex Police has warned that some "rogue" companies are targeting people at the busy airport.

The force said vehicles had been returned damaged and with more mileage on the clock. There have also been reports of people landing to find their vehicles had been parked in the wrong spot - leaving them with a large bill.

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Sussex Police is now telling people to take care ahead of the holiday season, with millions of people expected to transit through the airport.

Gatwick was Britain's second busiest airport last year, ahead of Manchester Airport and behind Heathrow Airport

Sussex Police said: "While most companies are reputable and offer a good service as advertised, Sussex Police and West Sussex Trading Standards continue to receive regular reports of customers who are disappointed with the service offered.

"In previous years some customers have reported damage to vehicles, including with vehicles being returned dirty or with more mileage on the clock.

"Customers have also reported some rogue companies purporting to take a vehicle to a secure car park, only for the company to leave the vehicle on a different level at the short stay car parks without payment, leaving customers facing charges or a large bill upon their return.

"There have also been reports of very long delays from customers waiting for their cars to be returned to them after their holiday or trip. As airports begin to get busier, it is important for motorists to check the reputation of the companies they are using.

"Motorists should also remember that not all companies listed are affiliated to London Gatwick, even if the business includes 'Gatwick Airport' in its name or if their website looks like it is linked to the airport."

Gatwick Police Neighbourhood Policing Team Inspector James Biggs added: "Travellers seeking to use 'meet and greet' parking services should do their homework before deciding which company to use.

"Online tools are available to help travellers with their research. If you book through an agent online, you should be aware that your vehicle may be allocated to a number of companies on their books.

"By doing your research you will be more confident to leave your vehicle with your chosen company and enjoy your travels."

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Oli Bedford, head of parking at London Gatwick, said: "We have no relationship with these rogue 'meet and greet' parking companies, even though many of them have 'Gatwick' in their company name.

"Legally rogue firms can operate on the airport as long as they do not break our by-laws.

"If passengers are considering using an off-airport meet and greet parking provider, they should check that they have a good reputation on Trustpilot, Trip Advisor or any other reliable means. The British Parking Association also has some good advice.

"For complete peace of mind, I would however strongly recommend that passengers use official on-airport parking."

Richard Sargeant, West Sussex Trading Standards team manager, said: "In recent years, we have had to deal with a number of rogue 'meet and greet' companies at the airport and it can be very difficult for travellers to decide which parking operator is best to use when you go on holiday or business.

"We would recommend travellers either park with Gatwick Airport direct or use a Trading Standards Approved business, who are reputable businesses.

"They afford you far greater security while you are away and so we always suggest visiting www.buywithconfidence.co.uk to find out which meet and greet operators have been Trading Standards Approved.

"Anyone who thinks they have been a victim of an unfair trading practice, should contact West Sussex Trading Standards or Citizens Advice on 0808 223 1133."