THIS ISSUE IS NOW RESOLVED
You will probably heard by now about the Motorcycle Parking Ban at Whitby Station.
I’ve seen lots of reports of this on biker websites, YouTube and the press. All have gone at it from the point of discrimination against bikers, which it is.
I decided to try and get some answers so, emailed the railway company involved.
I came at it from the perspective of someone who wanted to us the railway and would need to park a solo motorcycle in the carpark. I asked some specific questions so I would know where I stand.
I still don’t have a clue if I park my bike there and get on the train will I be fined? If I am then the discrimination goes even further than just not being able to park.
What follows are the email thread between me and Northern Railways.

Me:
Good evening,
I have just heard that Whitby Railways Station has stopped motorcycle parking in the carpark. I use a solo motorcycle as my transport, and this is going to impact on me.

The sign states "Unauthorised parking will result in a penalty of £50 being levied. Subject to Railway Byelaws (maximum penalty £1000) "

Could you please clarify the position on this please. When I want to use the railway or its facilities, am I able to park in a marked bay and purchase a parking ticket?

What does Subject to Railway Byelaws mean in this case, which bylaws is it referring to.

I look forward to your clarification so I can continue to use the railway and facilities


Northern railways:
Thank you for reaching out to Northern.
I am writing in response to the recent correspondence concerning the decision involving Whitby station's car park.
Firstly, I want to express my sincere apologies for any inconvenience or frustration caused by this decision. Please know that your comments on this matter have been duly noted.
The decision was made due to motorcycles often occupying individual parking spaces, thus hindering access for cars that require these facilities. Additionally, there's a lack of evidence that all motorcycle users are paying the appropriate tariff, which is a requirement for all station customers. Moreover, motorcycles are frequently parked in pedestrian walkways, pavements, and areas designated for other vehicles.
Regarding the Thursday Night Motorbike meeting, Northern Trains has not granted permission for this gathering. Therefore, controlling the car park's usage becomes necessary to prevent further disruptions to its operation and revenue.
I want to assure you that while motorcycle usage is currently suspended, we are open to reconsidering the situation. However, any changes must be thoroughly planned, considering all logistical aspects and compliance measures.
I understand the impact this decision may have, and I genuinely appreciate your understanding and patience as we navigate through these concerns.

Me:
Thank you for your reply to my enquiry regarding Whitby Railway Station Parking.
However, this does not address the specific questions I asked about. I have seen this letter on motorcycle websites, so it looks like it is a standard reply, rather than answering my questions.
I agree that motorcycles should pay for parking.
As a user of the railway my question were:
1 Can I park in the carpark when I pay for parking and use a marked parking bay?
2 You say in your reply that it’s not possible to verify when bikes have paid. The parking charge is made by “pay by phone app” so you must input your registration number, exactly the same as a car does. How can the enforcement officer know that a car has paid, and a bike hasn’t when they use the same method?
3 I specifically asked which railway byelaw you are referring to in the no motorcycle parking sign, could you please inform me of the byelaw number and wording.
I appreciate that you will be getting lots of correspondence about this issue BUT I use the railway and need clarification as my only transport to get to the station is by motorcycle.
I look forward to answers for these specific issues.
Regards

Northern railways:
Thank you for your response.
I have sent your questions in regards to Whitby station on to the relevant team and will have a response for you as soon possible.
Thank you for your patience on this

Dear Dave,
Unfortunately the only statement we are able to give you as per your questions is the statement we provided to the press last week which is the below.
The decision to implement a ban on motorcycles follows feedback into car park provision at Whitby station.
We would be unable to discuss this further I am afraid.
Again I would like to apologise for the inconvenience caused

So, there we have it, if you ride a bike and want to use the train from Whitby either risk a £50 fine, or, don’t bother.

Ride safe,
Dave

#RoyalEnfieldClassic350reborn #northyorkshiremoors #motorbikerides #thatblokeonamotorbike #RoyalEnfield #royalenfieldclassic350 ~#parkingbanwhitbyrailwaystation