There's a lot of work that needs to go into this type of venture. Sometimes you may miss some minor fine print and everything falls to pieces. They tried, and it is sad it didn't work out.
I'm not sure of any details, but with regard to parking, you can give verbal or written permission to use parking. I have 6 spaces allocated, but I've given written permission for two other business' to use my car parks as long as there are two free. Irrespective of what the council thinks. I agree, they are impossible to deal with.
