Football fans warned of illegal parking bays near Old Trafford stadium leading to huge penalties

Trafford Council said it has been made aware of people in high visibility vests tricking drivers into unauthorised parking areas and charging them a higher fee.

Drivers are subsequently charged to park on land or roads without the correct permission and then make illegal payments.

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In a bid to stop drivers getting caught out, Greater Manchester Police warned fans to look out for signs and yellow lines before leaving a vehicle parked, as incorrect parking could result in a penalty charge.

Trafford Council also noted that it does not employ operatives to collect payment for parking on-street.

The council and Greater Manchester Police are working to reduce the number of drivers being caught with regular matchday patrols planned and penalties for those behaving in this way.

Councillor Rose Thompson said: “Unfortunately, we have seen these instances all too often around Old Trafford on match days.

She added: “To avoid a penalty charge notice, drivers are encouraged to check the identity of anyone wearing high visibility clothing and claiming to be offering parking spots.”

Anyone claiming to be from Trafford Council is not an employee of the local authority, and “you should exercise caution when parking on match days,” she warned.

Thompson stated: “The best thing to do is only park in a pre-approved car park: details of these can be found online or in your communications from Manchester United.

“Alternatively, Old Trafford is well-connected to Manchester City Centre via the Metrolink, so why not consider taking public transport to the game? It’s cheaper and more sustainable too!”

Fans are also encouraged to find a regulated car park or location to park on matchday to avoid being fined.

The current fines a driver can receive for improper parking can depend on the severity of the case, but it is usually a £50 or £70 charge.

The amount can be reduced by 50 per cent, however, if paid within 14 days of the penalty notice being issued. The council said it is also in the process of introducing a ‘red route’ around the A56 corridor.

It warned: "If payment is not received within 28 days, the owner of the vehicle will be sent a statutory notice to pay the full amount or else make formal representations to the council.

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This would issue a no stopping zone with the only exception being for Blue Badge holders, buses and taxis. “Please do look out for signs and red lines on the road, and if you are parked in this area you will need to move your vehicle,” the council added.