The phased implementation of ‘Pay for What You Use’ parking in Huntingdonshire’s Off-Street Car Parks is to begin, with the first machines to be installed on 9th May – part of our strategy to deliver convenience to car park users and benefits to local businesses, supporting economic growth in our market towns. Motorists will see notices advising of the required changes as they are implemented over the next few months.
The move to ‘Pay for What You Use’ aims to make your time your own, allowing you to stay for longer, with no need to rush back in time for an expiring ticket. You will be able to pay for your parking when you return to your vehicle , to the nearest 15 minutes, rather than having to pay per hour block in advance.. The improvements also include the added convenience of contactless payments, whilst the options to pay by cash, phone or app remain.
Executive Councillor for Operations and Regulation, Councillor Marge Beuttell said: “Improving customer convenience and supporting our High Streets is a key part of our Manifesto, and I am keen to do all I can to support them. Our high streets have a lot to offer, this investment in parking technology delivers flexibility to allow our visitors to spontaneously decide to stay on for something to eat, enjoy some entertainment, or to take the chance to go for a coffee, rather than be forced to rush back to the car. It will be good for our high streets and good for visitors and residents.”
The range of improvements in off-street car parking, approved in February, will be made in a phased approach over the next few months.
Councillor Beuttell added : “We have listened to what local residents, businesses and visitors want. People are busy and want convenience, they want choice, they want flexibility and they want to be able to do things when they want to do them. The conversations I have had with the public show the approach to be popular, particularly with those with children and those in a hurry.”
Following significant improvement in off-street car parking this year, additional proposals will be brought forward to offer further enhancements. These include proposals for wider bays, a revamp of car charging points and improving lighting, highlighted in our Off-Street Car Parking Plan.
