THE security company that clamped an entire street of cars on an Edmonton estate on Friday was brought in by residents, according to property managers.

Residential Management Group, the company that manages Barton Estate, said it had nothing to do with the change in security firms that caused the mass clamp.

Spokeswoman Emma Hulse said the contract was between the residents' own management committee and parking security firm, Parking Control Management (PCM).

She said residents who found themselves with hundreds of pounds to pay were responsible for what happened.

She added: “PCM hand-delivered permits and letters over 14 days ago, June 19, which clearly stated that the new service would commence on the July 3 and operate on a 24-hour, seven-days-a-week basis.

“It advised vehicle owners that it would be their full responsibility to park correctly and ensure the parking permit was clearly displayed in the windscreen at all times.

“Signs were also erected on the development seven days ago plus reminder letters delivered.”

She said the management company did not receive any of the money made in fines.

Some residents told the Enfield Independent they did not receive new parking permits from PCM or the hand delivered letters.

Without the new permits, the company assumed drivers were illegally parked and clamped their cars, charging them a £130 fine which rose to £300 after a couple of hours.