Tesco rogues get warning of new Inverness car park rules
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SUPERSTORE giants Tesco are clamping down on rogue parkers muscling in on one of their car parks.
From Monday free parking in Tesco Extra at Inshes is limited to three hours with any car staying longer facing a £75 penalty.
NHS Highland Active Travel, which promotes walking, cycling or scooting to work, flagged up the new Tesco policy on Facebook, prompting some to think that it was the notorious parking problem at nearby Raigmore Hospital that was behind the move.
But superstore manager Stephen MacLeod said that the hospital wasn’t the main culprit but offices around Inshes Retail Park, that include Assynt House, NHS Highland’s HQ.
Mr MacLeod said: “We have put managers round the offices explaining the situation to them, and our trolley collectors have been advising customers of the new policy.
“We are bringing in a company to take charge of the car park, and they will have people here.”
Some people on Facebook thought three hours might not be long enough to visit Tesco, the adjoining Dobbies garden centre, and have lunch.
Mr MacLeod responded: “We did a bit of a census and it was felt that three hours was adequate. You have to be realistic.
“However if it is a genuine customer who is a bit over the three hours but who has been spending money in our premises, then the penalty will be waived if receipts are produced.”
Two years ago there was a furore when Assynt House relocated more NHS staff there which meant four cars were vying for every car space. One NHS worker said the nearby car parks including Tesco, police and Carlton Bingo should feel morally compelled to give some of their spaces.
