A shock crackdown is underway in North Somerset as police target rogue off-site parking firms near Bristol Airport. Following a surge in complaints, travellers are being warned after discovering their cars damaged or driven without permission.
Multi-Agency Raid Exposes Dodgy Parking Operators
The Airport police teamed up with Immigration Enforcement, North Somerset Council, and the British Parking Association to launch a day of action. Their focus? Unaccredited parking firms operating away from the official airport site.
- Three suspect locations raided — no staff found on site.
- “Offices” were just insecure vehicles and a caravan.
- Customer keys found inside police-inspected caravan.
- One driver caught driving a customer’s car without insurance.
Stranded and Scammed: Travellers Tell Horror Stories
Many passengers reported being abandoned with excuses from operators. Some were left to book their own taxis with promises of reimbursement. One family was sent to a farm, waiting over three hours before their car was returned. Another, with two upset kids, was escorted to a hotel by airport staff.
“It was a nightmare. We had no idea where our car was, and the whole experience was stressful for the kids,” said one frustrated traveller.
Police Urge Holidaymakers: Stick to Accredited Parking
With Christmas and New Year travel looming, Avon & Somerset Police are warning holidaymakers to steer clear of dodgy operators. They urge booking only through trusted platforms and Bristol Airport’s official website.
Travellers are advised to:
- Use official on-site parking options at Bristol Airport.
- Check reviews and company credentials carefully.
- Look for British Parking Association membership or other accreditations.
If you think you’ve been scammed, call the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133.
