Manchester Airport parking: Crackdown on meet-and-greet firms

Some cars parked on residential streets have been vandalised

Holidaymakers' cars left on residential streets near Manchester Airport could be towed away in a parking crackdown.

Manchester City Council said it set up a dedicated enforcement team to deal with issues caused by "rogue" meet-and-greet companies leaving cars in Wythenshawe.

It asked residents to report any issues and said it will use its enforcement powers when necessary.

Some cars parked on residential streets for long periods have been vandalised.

The council said firms have been offering secure parking for airport passengers but vehicles have been left on the streets on Woodhouse Park, blocking junctions, driveways and paths.

It said one company had been prosecuted by the council's Trading Standards team and will be sentenced next month.

The council urged residents to call the parking services department if they notice vehicles parked on double yellow lines or blocking road crossings, driveways or bus stops.

It warned that it will take enforcement action - which includes towing vehicle away.

'Cowboys'

The airport said it had been working with the council on an accredited scheme for legitimate meet-and-greet companies.

Councillor Rabnawaz Akbar, executive member for neighbourhoods, said the situation "cannot be allowed to continue".

"The cowboys are deceiving their customers and endangering our residents by parking vehicles hazardously. We share local anger at their blatant disregard for people's safety," he said.

Manchester Airport recently scrapped free drop-offs outside terminals and the railway station with drivers now charged unless they use a free drop-off parking area about a mile away from the terminals.