Unauthorised Airport Car Park Expands Despite Enforcement

An unauthorised car park situated near Stansted Airport has expanded by almost two-thirds since Uttlesford District Council issued an enforcement notice last summer ordering its closure. The facility, established in early 2025 at New Farm near Elsenham, Essex, operates without the necessary planning permission.

Customer Complaints and Site Conditions

Travellers returning from holidays have described scenes of considerable disorder, including overcrowded transport services and damage to their vehicles. One customer, Mark Reardon, reported finding his car's seats moved and blankets disturbed, with his rear number plate dislodged and damage to a door handle and bodywork. He described the situation as "absolute mayhem".

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Another holidaymaker, Jane Fuller, stated her daughter's car was left unlocked for 22 hours, with the vehicle later found parked on rubble. Deb Jordan recounted a journey from the airport where passengers were allegedly left waiting for over three hours, with two busloads of people crammed onto a single minibus, leading to luggage obstructing passengers.

Some customers also reported being charged an additional £20 for transport to the Radisson Blu Hotel at Stansted Airport, from where they then had to walk to the terminal. Amelia Palmer expressed disappointment after her car sustained damage while parked at the facility, leading to stress and difficulty in obtaining compensation.

Planning Dispute and Ongoing Operation

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The New Farm site, formerly agricultural land, now covers approximately seven acres and has the capacity to hold up to 1,000 vehicles. Uttlesford District Council's enforcement notice required the cessation of the unauthorised use of the land. However, an appeal was lodged by Aurangzaib Cheema, listed as an owner of SC Parking Ltd, citing the need to honour future bookings and avoid detrimental income impact.

This appeal permits the car park to continue trading while the case is considered by the Planning Inspectorate. A hearing date is not anticipated before 2027. Uttlesford District Council stated it is monitoring the site and assessing new reports against the existing enforcement notice. Essex Trading Standards has not received sufficient complaints for a formal investigation.

Industry Response and Advice

Travel Extra Deals Ltd, a comparison website used by some customers, has issued a final warning to the operator and indicated it will cease sending bookings if further complaints arise. The Radisson Blu Hotel at Stansted Airport has clarified it has no commercial agreement or affiliation with the car park operator. Stansted Airport's managing director, Gareth Powell, advised customers to use authorised parking providers, verify reviews, and report concerns to Essex Trading Standards.