New cashless parking system is on the way
Motorists who prefer using a cashless way to pay for their parking on municipal car parks in Newcastle-under-Lyme will soon see a change to the service.
RingGo – which enables people to pay via their mobile phone instead of a traditional pay and display machine – replaces Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council’s existing provider, PayByPhone, on most council-owned car parks from Thursday, 23 October as the current contract comes to an end.
Drivers will be able to pay for – and manage – hourly parking via the RingGo smartphone app or by calling, sending a text message or going online. All pay and display machines continue to accept cash and card payments as normal.
The new service goes live at open air facilities initially – such as Goose Street and King Street in Newcastle – with Castle car park launching at a later date as well as the availability of digital permits for the first time.
Signage is available at council car parks informing people of the change.
Cllr. Stephen Sweeney, Cabinet member for Finance, Town Centres and Growth, said:
We want to make parking as quick, easy and safe as possible for residents, shoppers and visitors. Everyone has different payment preferences which is why we offer a variety of options at all locations whether that’s cash, card or a cashless system.
The council is pleased to secure a new cashless supplier which will enable us to provide the same high levels of service, with additional functionality. Some motorists find it’s convenient to pay via their mobile phone, especially when they don’t have the right change or don’t want to use a machine once parked up. Drivers can change their car details, extend sessions – without returning to their car – and receive timely reminders without the need for cash or a physical ticket.
The first phase of the launch takes place later this week and I encourage residents to download the app, or pre-register with RingGo, in advance so that they’re ready to go from 23 October.”
Customers can pre-register with RingGo online or download the free app from the App Store (Apple devices) or Google Play (Android). A location code is needed to book parking which is displayed on car park signs. There is a basic 20p convenience fee for all transactions, with the option to purchase additional features.
PayByPhone remains in use on car parks until midnight on Wednesday, 22 October.
More information will be available on the council’s website.