An MP has written to a shop about his concern over unfair parking fines.

Ilford North MP Wes Streeting has written to the manager of B&Q in Horns Road Retail Park, Newbury Park, about reports of customers being fined for visiting other stores while using their car park – including claims of a 72-year-old man being charged for visiting the pharmacy after shopping at B&Q.

Mr Streeting said: “I am very concerned. While I understand the need for appropriate parking enforcement to prevent abuse of B&Q’s facility, B&Q exists as part of a community of local businesses in the retail park. Visitors should be able to park up and visit other shops. Not only would this reduce emissions and congestion by reducing the need to drive a short distance to the car park across the road, it also encourages visitors to visit the range of shops open for business.

“Given the pressures on the retail industry, epitomised by the recent loss of Toys R Us, this would benefit all the local businesses, including B&Q.”

It has also said by those using the car park also say that there are not enough signs explaining the parking rules.

A B&Q spokesperson said: "The car park which serves B&Q and JD Sports in Newbury Park, Ilford is owned and managed by a third party. We asked the management agent to stop fines for those walking away from their vehicles and visiting other stores, and understand this has now been stopped. For any further queries or concerns about the management of the parking, please contact the landlord.”