THE management of Flicks nightclub in London Street says legitimate parking on its land is welcome, but people must realise if they park there illegally they will get clamped.
It follows a report in the Andover Advertiser on 4 April which highlighted concerns from some members of the public who had complained to police about the practice in London Street.
"I think it's necessary to clear up any confusion," said Mario Constantinides, the manager of Flicks.
"We are slowly and gently introducing clamping for unauthorised vehicles in our car parks.
"We're not trying to cause people problems or attack the local residents but this is private property and we do need to keep it clear," he added.
In the coming months Flicks is planning a total refurbishment and in the meantime it's business as usual. "Some people treat the car park like a deserted area and park wherever they want and drop litter.
"But it isn't and never has been," said Mario.
"I still take weekly deliveries and these vehicles are finding it harder to get through.
"Also, with the heightened awareness of terrorism at the moment, I like to know which vehicles are which on site."
Mario is also keen to clear up any confusion about the land at the front of the club, outside Chaplin's and the old cinema. This is also private property and non-permit holders should not park there.
"I would rather people came in and spent the same amount of money on a monthly permit than on getting needlessly clamped," said Mario.
"But in the three weeks this operation has been up and running, we've only clamped eight cars and sent hundreds more on their way, so it's not about making money," he added.
Andover beat officer WPc Celine Roe was investigating initial complaints about the clamping at Flicks, but says that enforcing clamping on private property - as long as there are clear signs visible - is perfectly legal.
"It's difficult for the police to get involved with matters like this because it's out of our jurisdiction," she said. "I think if you do park there in future, you do so at your own risk and you have to be aware of the consequences," she added.
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