Coles responds after P-plater locked in with bollard for flouting parking rule
Management at the Brisbane store became fed-up with locals parking in the reserved spaces. But their response has proven divisive.
Frustrated staff at a Coles-owned bottle shop have retaliated against drivers flouting parking rules outside their store, by seeking revenge on those found in their designated customer spaces.
Seemingly fed-up with people using the 'customer only' spaces outside the First Choice Liquor Market store in Newstead, Brisbane — which they own — management decided to take action. Photos show a car with P-plates blocked in by a yellow bollard with a note left on its back window.
The typed note addressed to the driver informs them of "the purpose" of the space which is to "have an available spot for customers" to park. It's understood there is ample signage stating parking beyond 15 minutes is prohibited and that fines apply.
"Due to you not adhering to the parking rules, your vehicle has been locked in by management and will be kept on record," it said. "Please note, if you are receiving this warning, there might be a bollard located at the front or rear of your vehicle".
"Please see First Choice management to discuss your options".
Coles defends management's parking move
A local woman snapped photos of the unexpected scenario and shared them on Facebook. She said there "were at least two other cars locked in" when she was passing by this week. When contacted by Yahoo News Australia, a manager at the store said he "is not authorised to talk to media" on the matter.
Coles has since justified management's actions saying their commitment to customers means providing "parking and clear access to our stores".
"The Newstead store carpark is owned by Coles and has signage throughout the carpark informing locals about parking time restrictions which are also painted on the parking bays," a Coles spokesperson told Yahoo.
"To ensure we are making our stores more accessible for customers, our store team may use its discretion to remind the community of the parking rules.”
It's understood that some cars remained parked for extended periods, sometimes overnight. It's thought a lack of parking available in the area is to blame.
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Locals divided over store's response to parking
Responding to the store's actions, locals were divided. Many were quick to note the lack of parking in the area.
"About time. Pub takes all the spaces," one said. "I’ve been there when the store opens and there have been no car spaces available".
Someone else said a large apartment complex across the road, which has limited parking, is contributing to the problem. "Don’t park where you shouldn’t. It’s simple," a third hit out.
While another said it was "about bloody time" something was done about the parking.
One however offered "a different perspective" and suggested the staff had gone too far. She noted the importance of being able to "flee" in a hurry, particularly in domestic violence situations.
"The thought of their vehicle being blocked in by bollard, should an unthinkable situation arise, is horrific to think of," she said.
"While I understand this would be frustrating for your shop, it could be putting someone’s life in danger — as another perspective to think of."
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