The recent damage to a controversial sign raises questions about enforcement and safety.
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A controversial sign at a popular drop-off point near Aberdeen Airport has suffered damage less than two weeks after its installation. The sign, prominently displayed at the entrance of both the Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn Express, was erected to enforce strict no parking, picking up, or dropping off policies in the area.
Installed on December 12, the sign clearly states that the area is for hotel customers only and warns that violators will face a £100 fine, which could escalate to an additional £70 if unpaid within 28 days.
Sign damaged under mysterious circumstances
Despite its recent installation, one of the two signs has been found lying flat on the ground, face down in the grass, accompanied by stones and mud. The cause of this damage remains unclear. While some speculate that recent high winds in the northeast may have played a role, others suspect potential vandalism. In contrast, the sign located across the road remains intact, leading to further questions about the incident.
Mixed reactions from local staff and airport workers
A staff member at the Crowne Plaza Hotel expressed confusion over the situation, stating they had “absolutely no idea” what had happened to the sign. Two airport workers nearby noted that the sign had been down for a “few days,” with one worker dismissing the possibility of damage from a vehicle due to the absence of tire marks. They also doubted vandalism, citing the lack of troublemakers in the area.
Controversial policies and rising fees at Aberdeen Airport
The sign’s controversial nature stems from the fact that blue badge holders are not exempt from fines in the drop-off zone, which has become a favored spot for both the public and taxi drivers seeking to avoid the airport’s drop-off charges. Earlier this year, taxi drivers faced a staggering 150% increase in drop-off fees at Aberdeen Airport, with the express drop-off zone now costing £5.50 for just 15 minutes. If drivers exceed this time, they incur a premium charge of £1 per minute, which escalates to a flat fee of £50 after 30 minutes.
Both Police Scotland and Vehicle Control Services Limited, the managing authority for the area, have been contacted for comments regarding the incident and the ongoing enforcement of the drop-off policies. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the airport will address the damage to the sign and the concerns raised by the community.
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