Critics have accused the Labour-run council of a “sneaky parking sting” after management of the car parks was handed to Horizon Parking, with automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) enforcement expected to begin in March at swimming pool and diving centre The Quays north and south car parks.
Conservative opposition councillor Jeremy Moulton claims the move mirrors enforcement at West Quay Retail Park where drivers have complained of unfairly being fined.
Concerns have also been raised after new signs and ticket machines were installed while a public consultation was still ongoing.
Cllr Moulton questioned whether the process was fair or a “total sham”.
He said: “The council have handed The Quays car parks to controversial Horizon Parking – now ANPR cameras will ticket you from March.
“Just like West Quay Retail Park – unfair fines incoming for innocent drivers.
“The Quays put the new signs and ticket machines up while the public consultation was still running. Fair consultation, or total sham?”
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However, Councillor Alex Winning, leader of Southampton City Council, insisted no final decision has been made.
He said: “Through December we undertook a formal Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) consultation, and we are now carefully reviewing all of the feedback received. No final decision has been taken.
“The early installation of signs and ticket machines was an operational action taken independently by a third-party. It was neither requested nor authorised by the council, and it should not have taken place before the TRO process concluded.
“As a result, the car park continues to operate exactly as it always has, and no changes will be made unless and until a lawful, transparent decision is reached.”
A published notice states that The Quays north and south car parks are set to no longer be operated by the council with the enforcement handed over to BH Live, which runs The Quays.
The same order also proposes amendments at Bargate Street car park to facilitate blue badge holder parking following the relocation of the Shop Mobility service.