F1 News: Silverstone Responds After Locals Fume Over Unexpected Fines After British GP
During the British Grand Prix, residents of the neighbouring Silverstone village encountered an unexpected issue: they were fined for parking outside their own homes.
According to a report from the BBC, this penalty arose from a temporary traffic regulation order (TTRO) initiated to manage the anticipated parking challenges due to the influx of attendees. Responding to the oversight, Silverstone Circuit has committed to refunding the incurred fines, valuing £1,500, as a "goodwill gesture."
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The British Grand Prix witnessed an astounding 480,000 attendees over the weekend, with approximately 160,000 spectators on race day. This surge in attendance naturally posed significant logistical challenges.
The Silverstone Circuit, foreseeing the parking chaos, applied for a TTRO. This was meant to alleviate pressure on surrounding villages, like Silverstone and Whittlebury, which are situated in close proximity to the track. However, a miscommunication led to residents, who had legitimate parking passes, being fined by traffic wardens.
Stuart Pringle, the managing director of Silverstone Circuit, acknowledged the misstep and provided insight into the intent behind the TTRO. He explained:
"We communicated these local and temporary enforcements in good time and in good faith, but they were always intended to deter and punish our customers and not local residents."
Silverstone Circuit's official stance offered a reassuring resolution to affected villagers. Their statement clarified:
"The penalty notices that have been received are being processed, with refunds to be issued five days from the information being received."
It's worth noting that several residents have already started receiving refunds for these unintended fines.