(qlmbusinessnews.com . Fri 10th Oct, 2025) London, UK —
Survey Reveals Major Flaws in Mobile Parking Payments, Calls for Alternative Options
The RAC has issued a caution against compelling motorists to utilise mobile applications for parking fees, in light of findings from a survey which revealed that three-quarters of participants encountered issues with such systems.
Predominant issues reported included weak mobile signals within parking areas and the applications' failure to identify the correct parking location. These revelations surface amidst government plans to broaden the National Parking Platform (NPP), aiming to consolidate various parking services into a solitary application.
The integration initiative has been met with optimism by the RAC, with a stipulation for increased adoption among local councils and parking enterprises.
Rod Dennis, a senior policy adviser for the RAC, argued for the necessity of providing motorists with a minimum of two distinct payment options. He highlighted the inconvenience faced by drivers needing to familiarise themselves with multiple app interfaces, each requiring separate registrations and financial details. Dennis strongly advocated for an alternative to app-based payments, particularly for those less comfortable with technology or lacking access to smartphones.
A survey conducted by the RAC, encompassing 1,700 individuals, unveiled that 13% of participants were unaware of how to conduct parking payments via an app, a figure that rose to 26% among those aged over 75. Nearly half of the respondents expressed a preference for payments via card or contactless methods.
Reporters News' interaction with motorists at Deansgate North Q-Park in Manchester yielded mixed reactions. While some found app usage straightforward, preferring options like Apple Pay, others recounted difficulties in app connectivity leading to unjust fines.
In response to a successful pilot in ten English local authorities, the government announced the nationwide expansion of the NPP in May, contingent on the voluntary participation of car park operators and app developers. This non-profit endeavour is spearheaded by the British Parking Association (BPA), which represents industry operators.
The NPP is anticipated to eliminate the need for multiple app downloads for parking, simplifying the process considerably according to Mr Dennis. However, he emphasised the success of this initiative hinges on widespread participation across municipalities and parking firms.
The RAC advises drivers facing connectivity issues while attempting to pay for parking to document their efforts, including taking screenshots of any error messages encountered.
The BPA has expressed its support for the rising adoption of parking apps, underscoring the importance of inclusive technology. In a statement, the BPA committed to promoting ease and accessibility in parking, urging operators to provide a diverse range of payment methods catering to all motorists' preferences.
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