Councils across England have increasingly removed pay-and-display ticket machines in favour of app-based parking payments, a move that can leave drivers paying substantially more to park. Motorists using smartphone payment services have been reported to face additional service fees that, in some cases, push the total cost up by as much as 40%.
The switch to app payments is being framed by local authorities as a way to cut operating and maintenance costs associated with cash and machine-based systems. Many councils also promote app use as a faster option for drivers, saying it helps to avoid queues at busy car parks. However, drivers have complained that signs at some car parks do not clearly disclose that app transactions may carry extra charges.
In several instances, app payments become the only option when ticket machines are out of order, removing an alternative for drivers who prefer or need to pay on-site. The reliance on apps has also raised practical concerns for motorists without smartphones or those who do not want to use third-party payment services, who may face difficulty or added expense when paying to park.
The change has been seen across a number of local authorities, including several in London, and has prompted calls for clearer information at car parks about the total cost of parking when app fees apply. Critics say clearer signage and transparent pricing are needed so drivers can make informed choices about how to pay.
Councils argue the move helps reduce costs and improve efficiency in managing parking assets, but the shift to app-first or app-only payment systems highlights tensions between modernising services and ensuring fair, visible pricing for users.