Ipswich Borough Council has apologised for putting up an incorrect sign at a town car park which told visitors they could only stay during the summer.

Residents were confused as a sign was put up in the B car park in Bourne Park that said that people could only stay in that area between May 1 and October 31. 

A visitor to the park has told this newspaper the council had even started handing out parking charge notices to those whose cars were parked in the area.

Mark Johnson, who had arrived with his children after school to the park, said: "I was so confused when I saw that sign, why could I only park my car in the summer?"

Mr Johnson instead ended up parking his car on the road and walked five minutes to the park to not risk getting a fine. 

Ipswich Star: The council have said that they have begun the process to chance the fines handed outThe council have said that they have begun the process to chance the fines handed out (Image: Newsquest)

Ipswich Star: Some local were handed a fine of £25Some local were handed a fine of £25 (Image: Sarah Lucy Brown)

However, others were not so lucky – and some visitors, including 27-year-old Reece Stewart, parked their car thinking it was a mistake. 

"By the time I came back I saw a ticket on my car, saying I was charged £25," said Mr Stewart.

The council has apologised for the sign being put up and has cancelled the fines given out. 

A spokesman said the sign was giving incorrect information to visitors to the area, and the park did not have any such parking restrictions.

The spokesman said: “We’d like to confirm to residents and visitors that Bourne Park and both free parking areas for the Park, including designated disabled parking bays, are open 24 hours a day, year-round.

"It’s only in the busy summer months that return parking is not permitted within one hour after a previous parking stay.

"We appreciate people’s concerns and apologise for any confusion caused.”