Luton Airport Car Park Operator Ignores Council Stop Notice, Damages Customer Vehicles

A car park operating near Luton Airport has reportedly continued to accept new customers, despite Central Bedfordshire Council issuing a planning enforcement stop notice for unauthorised use of agricultural land. Holidaymakers have returned to discover their vehicles extensively damaged, covered in mud, and sometimes requiring recovery.

Customers allege that their cars were driven thousands of miles, had flat tyres, and were left unlocked or with keys missing. The car park, known as 'Direct Parking' or 'Luton Paradise Parking', is accused of operating on land designated solely for agricultural purposes, with concerns also raised about potential damage to the rural environment and highway safety due to vehicles being parked on verges.

Central Bedfordshire Council initiated legal action in May 2023, serving an initial enforcement notice followed by a stop notice in December. The council affirmed its commitment to pursuing a prosecution against the operators for non-compliance, noting the significant public interest in the matter. However, the site remains operational, with ongoing complaints of vehicle damage and the operator's alleged failure to address customer grievances or provide adequate compensation.