A SITE opposite Warrington Central station has stopped operating as a pay and display car park after planning enforcement officers threatened the landowner with 'formal action'.

ES Parking Enforcement Ltd had been charging motorists £2.80 for all-day parking on the piece of land, on Winwick Street.

A number of motorists have been hit with £60 penalty notices in recent months.

But the council confirmed the site is no longer operating as a pay and display car park.

A spokesman said: "Planning enforcement officers opened a case and advised the landowner of the need for planning permission otherwise formal action would be taken.

"The landowner notified us that he no longer wished to submit an application.

"He has stated that the payment facility and signage have been removed from the site and it has ceased to be used as a paid car park."

Anyone who needs advice on a parking charge should call the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0345 404 0506.