Aldi given nod for cameras at centre of row

A budget supermarket chain that became embroiled in a row over number plate recognition cameras '“ after it emerged it did not have planning permission for them '“ have had them approved by council planners.
AldiAldi
Aldi

Aldi and partner Parking Eye has been operating the ANPR devices in Cleveleys for five years – but only applied for their installation last month.

It led to one MP questioning the legality of fines issued since 2011, though the supermarket refuted any suggestion customers may be able to challenge the £70 penalty notices.

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Council documents have now revealed that town hall staff granted retrospective planning permission.

An Aldi spokesman said: “On this occasion, we have been asked by the local authority to apply for planning permission regarding equipment on our site retrospectively.

“This in no way affects the enforceability of any charges issued prior to the application being made.”

But Blackpool North MP Paul Maynard believes the German chain and Parking Eye, which manages its car parks, may have a case to answer.

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He said: “I’m sure there will be many people who agree that the fines they have had to pay out have been too steep.

“But now it seems they might not have technically been legal. I’m sure the matter will, at some point, be heard before a court.”