The Newcastle City Council has put forth a proposal to withdraw all coin-operated machines and replace them with card-enabled ticket machines at every location in the city.
If the plans are green-lit, the change should be introduced in early 2023 and finished over a six-month period. Drivers will be able to express their opinion on the proposal over an upcoming consultation period; residents can read the details on how to respond in car parks and on-street parking sites. Newcastle residents will have 21 days to submit their feedback, which will be considered before the council makes the final decision.
According to the Chronicle, Cllr Jane Byrne, cabinet member for a connected, clean city, said: “With the vast majority of people preferring cashless payments due to its convenience and ease, we’re keen to see this service expanded to include all car parking in the city.”
"Newcastle residents will have 21 days to submit their feedback, which will be considered before the council makes the final decision"
She has also acknowledged that certain groups of people, particularly older people and people with disabilities might be more impacted with these changes. She added: “We will also look to provide additional support to anyone who requires it through video tutorials available on our website or in-person demonstrations.”