KFC overstayed charge

[filmon22]

Hi all,

I’m seeking advice regarding a parking charge I received from Smart Parking Ltd, which has now been passed to DCBL (Direct Collection Bailiffs Ltd) for debt recovery. The total outstanding amount is £170.

Background:
• The original PCN (Parking Charge Notice) is dated 09/04/2022.
• Location: KFC New Oscott, Birmingham.
• My vehicle: DY65 ***
• PCN Number: TC67216**
• DCBL Reference Number: 920791*

At the time, I was working as a fast food delivery driver, collecting orders from that KFC branch. I spoke to the KFC manager on duty and was informed that he will send them an email. He cancelled my other tickets , but unfortunately, this appears to have not been cancelled.

I only became aware of the situation when I received a final debt recovery notice from DCBL in July 2025, stating legal action may follow.

Points I’d like advice on:
1. Is there any way to still dispute or appeal this, given that I was working and believed the charge would be cancelled?
2. Can I request the charge be cancelled based on my role as a delivery driver and what the manager told me?
3. Should I respond to DCBL directly, or reach out to Smart Parking instead?
4. Can this affect my credit score, and is this case enforceable in court?

Any help or suggestions on how to handle this fairly would be greatly appreciated. I have copies of the original PCN and the DCBL letter if needed.

Thanks in advance.

[des8]

Have you been back to KFC and asked them to have this missed PCN cancelled?
Charges can be cancelled and withdrawn at any time up to the actual court hearing, so if Smart refuse ask KFC to confirm in writing that they have directed the charge should be cancelled.

It is not worth even contacting DCBL. I have never heard of them cancelling a charge as they are only debt collectors.
Likewise unlikely Smart will back down on your appeal.

DCBL will pass the matter to their sister company DCB Legal, who are solicitors and will eventually initiate a court action.
It will be possible to dispute the claim.
Sometimes it will be dismissed entirely or reduced in amount, sometimes not.

If you could post up a redacted version of the PCN (leave in all times and dates) and a photo of the signs we will have a better idea

Even if it goes to court and you should lose it will not affect your credit record if you pay the judgment award within a month

[filmon22]

Update, I have received the DCBL legal stating 22 august as a letter of claim and take me to court if I don’t pay within 30 days. could you please advise what to do

[des8]

as in post 2
"If you could post up a redacted version of the PCN (leave in all times and dates) and a photo of the signs we will have a better idea"

Did you go back to KFC?