News / HIAL can’t be held responsible for damage to cars, the airport operator insists
DRIVERS are leaving their vehicles at Sumburgh airport’s car park at their own risk, Highlands and Islands Airport Limited (HIAL) has reiterated.
The airport operator said on Thursday that they deplored the damage done to three vehicles parked at its car park sometime over the Hogmanay/New Year period, but could not be held liable.
A spokesman for the company said it was clearly signposted that owners left their vehicles, and its contents, at their own risk. There is also a note on HIAL’s website.
There is no CCTV cover of the airport’s car park.
The government owned company introduced hugely controversial car parking charges of £3 per day at Sumburgh airport on 1 December.
Local people have reacted to the original story with a long thread of comments on Shetland News’ Facebook page.
Shetland MSP Tavish Scot, who over recent months campaigned against the introduction of the airport car parking changes, said: “HIAL will have to take legal responsibility as they charge for a car park that has no security CCTV.
“I have suggested that the car owners contact HIAL Sumburgh management and [HIAL managing director] Inglis Lyon’s office in Inverness.
But a spokesperson for HIAL said: “We deplore the damage caused to the vehicles and we are providing every assistance to the police to help trace who is responsible. We would like to reiterate Police Scotland’s appeal for anyone with information to contact them.”
Scott added: “People will be at a complete loss to understand why this mindless vandalism was carried out and I hope the Police are able to track down whoever was responsible.”
Police are appealing for witnesses and can be contacted at Lerwick police station on telephone 101.
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.
Already a supporter? Sign in to hide this message.
