Bury North MP James Frith is calling for urgent changes to Manchester Airport’s new online parking system, after local residents complained of being unfairly fined during short pick-up or drop-off stops.
A string of complaints from Bury residents has prompted local MP James Frith to challenge Manchester Airport over its new online payment system for parking in drop-off and pick-up zones.
The Labour MP says constituents have been left feeling unfairly penalised after receiving fines—even during visits lasting less than five minutes—due to unclear signage and confusion around how to pay.
In a letter addressed to the airport’s Managing Director, Frith criticised the system for “penalising honest motorists for genuine mistakes” and said the fines were often “disproportionate” compared to the brief duration of stops.
“I fully appreciate the airport’s efforts to reduce congestion and speed up drop-off and pick-up,” Frith said. “But the current approach risks penalising honest motorists for genuine mistakes.”
Frith’s letter calls for three key reforms:
- Extending the time window allowed to make a payment before issuing fines
- Introducing written notifications before issuing penalties for missed payments
- Improving signage to ensure payment instructions are clear, visible, and easy to understand
The current system requires motorists to pay online within a limited timeframe after using airport drop-off areas, but many have reported missing the window or failing to notice signage altogether. Some have even received £100 penalty charges despite attempting to pay.
Manchester Airport has defended the system, stating that it is designed to cut down on congestion, encourage smoother traffic flow, and fund transport improvements. A spokesperson previously said that the online payment model offers “greater flexibility” and supports the airport’s long-term sustainability goals.
But Frith says the rollout has left too many residents confused and unfairly punished.
“People should be able to drop off and collect family members without the fear of receiving an unfair fine,” he added. “I hope Manchester Airport will listen to these concerns and work to ensure a transparent and reasonable system for all users.”
The airport has not yet publicly responded to Frith’s letter.
Prestwich actor celebrates awards success as amateur dramatics keeps theatre dreams alive
Rochdale Council blocks resident’s bid to cut branches from protected oak tree
Rush hour chaos as two crashes clog M60, M61 and M62
Bury’s first Christmas parade to light up The Rock with live music and radio broadcast
Crown Oil Arena sleep out raises thousands to help end homelessness in Rochdale
The seven Bee Network bus changes affecting five boroughs and 150,000 passengers announced
New mosque plans set to transform Rochdale landmark
Families left heartbroken as churchyard rules force removal of grave tributes
350 homes and park and ride plans for 60 acres of green belt just yards from hard shoulder of M66
Huge flood defence scheme progresses
Huge 91m mast to be built later this month as part of Scout Moor II wind farm
Assistance dog charity appeals for Rochdale volunteers as new training hub opens
Comments
Add a comment