Croydon’s pay and display parking machines are set to change over the coming months, mainly because they operate on the 3G mobile network, which is due to be shutdown during the course of this year.
In the first instance, from 7 March, pay and display machines will no longer be able to accept cash, as this function will be turned off in batches across the borough. No pay and display machines will be able to accept cash after 31 March. However, many will still accept card payment until the 3G network is shutdown.
It is anticipated that all pay and display machines will be shutdown by the end of June 2024, when the use of ‘RingGo’, ‘Paypoint’, and phone parking will replace them fully across the borough.
Residents and visitors will still be able to benefit from the council’s free parking offer in district centres allowing them to easily visit local shops and businesses.
Four parking trials were held in preparation of the planned 3G network shutdown, so that the council could understand all of the potential issues, and address concerns.
Learning from these trials, it was clear motorists want options available for cash payments, so the council has developed a ‘Paypoint’ option, where people can visit any shop that offers ‘Paypoint’ and book a free parking session, or a paid session, with cash or card.
Further, in response to calls for more options to pay for those who do not have a smartphone, free parking sessions can be booked by mobile or landline by phoning ‘RingGo’ on 020 3046 0010.
However, the best and most convenient way to park is via the ‘RingGo’ parking app, available to download for free on both Apple and Android devices. The council does not make any additional charge for use of ‘RingGo’. However, some default settings within the app can mean that residents pay a small charge to ‘RingGo’ for text reminders. These notifications can be easily switched off in the app settings.
Residents can give their feedback on the changes through a survey on the Council website or by emailing parking@croydon.gov.uk, from 7 March.
“We launched these trials when we learned the network providers would be shutting off the 3G network, because it was so important to hear feedback and learn of the potential issues that could arise. We know that these types of changes can be challenging, so we have listened and made adjustments that will make the process easier.
“We had a lot of response to our trials and have taken steps to address a vast majority of concerns, with options for ‘Paypoint’ and the ability to phone ‘RingGo’ to book a session added to our payment options.”
Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon
