A couple from Macclesfield have expressed shock after being issued a £176 fine for driving across a toll bridge five months ago, with no prior warning. James Flanagan, 47, and Estelle Flanagan, 43, say they received no letters or emails about the unpaid toll before being contacted by a debt-recovery agency demanding nearly £200.
New Toll Rules and Penalties
Under rules introduced in December 2025, motorists using Warburton Toll Bridge—which straddles the border of Cheshire and Greater Manchester—must pay a £1 toll online by midnight the following day. Failure to pay results in an Unpaid Toll Charge (UTC) notice, which can escalate to fines up to £100. However, the Flanagans claim they received no such notice before being pursued by Direct Debt Collection Bailiffs on behalf of Excel Parking Services Limited.
The couple moved from Glazebrook to Macclesfield in October 2025 and set up a postal diversion system to cover all correspondence. Despite this, they say no letters about the unpaid toll were sent to either their old or new address. James Flanagan said: "We've never had something like this, it's just a complete and utter shock."
Dispute Over Postal Notices
Excel Parking says a notice was sent to Mrs Flanagan on 24 April 2026, but the company told the Manchester Evening News it is not responsible for the 'transmission of post' and directed inquiries to Royal Mail. Royal Mail requested more information, asking whether the letter was sent first or second class and if it was tracked. Excel Parking has not yet responded to these queries.
The Flanagans are among hundreds of motorists hit with large fines since the toll increase and introduction of an automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) system in December 2025. The toll rose from 12p to £1—an increase of over 700%—and residents say fines are being issued up to five months after bridge use.
Impact on Motorists
James Flanagan, who had used the bridge for ten years without issue, said: "£176 for that one trip from five months ago? They've never once contacted me." He added: "I'm happy to pay a toll penalty, but nearly £200? It's just bullying tactics from that company." The couple now has about two weeks to pay or face potential legal action.
Jon Hassett, deputy port director for Peel Ports Group (which runs the Manchester Ship Canal Company), told the MEN: "We recognise the variety of concerns road users have raised about the operation of the toll enforcement system, including the appeals process, payment methods and customer experience. We take all feedback seriously and are reviewing the examples that have been provided, in conjunction with Excel Parking."
A representative from Excel Parking Services said: "We have evidence that a UTC Notice was posted to Mrs Flanagan on 24 April 2026. We are not responsible for any issues associated with the transmission of post; such issues, including the postal re-direct service, should be directed to the Royal Mail." Royal Mail and Direct Debt Collection Bailiffs have been approached for comment.
