Heading
Close X
Menu
An increasing number of local authorities are considering switching to cashless parking systems in a bid to cut costs, according to the AA. While some councils have already implemented cashless payments in part or all of their car parks, more are now looking to follow suit.
A poll conducted by the AA found that two-fifths (40%) of motorists still prefer to pay for parking using cash. Among low-income drivers, over half expressed a preference for cash payments when parking.
The survey also highlighted generational differences in payment preferences. Nearly half (46%) of drivers aged 65 and over favour cash, along with 40% of those aged 55-64. In contrast, just 12% of 18-24-year-olds identified cash as their preferred payment method. Instead, 37% of younger drivers opt for contactless card payments, while 35% favour app-based transactions.
Although society has increasingly shifted towards cashless payments, the previous Government wrote to councils urging them to ensure parking remains accessible to all and that cash payments continue to be accepted.
Some AA members have expressed strong views in favour of cash, with one stating, “I only go to car parks that take cash,” while another remarked, “If they don't take cash, I will leave and find somewhere else to park.”
Jack Cousens, head of roads policy at the AA, said: “Parking the car should be a simple and hassle-free experience, but some drivers are becoming more frustrated as taking cash has become less common.
During the pandemic, many councils moved to cashless solutions to reduce transmission while still encouraging people to use facilities when allowed.
However, lots of local authorities have not returned to cash as the reduced administrative costs proved beneficial to their coffers and are now going further than some drivers are willing to accept.”
While it is clear that younger drivers prefer contactless payment options, older and low-income drivers want to pay by cash. In fact, some claim they drive on until they can do so. With the High Street already under strain, it seems counterintuitive for car parks to refuse a customer willing to pay.”
8 Westerton Road, East Mains Industrial Estate, Broxburn
West Lothian EH52 5AU
Calls may be monitored for quality and training purposes. Eastern Western Motor Group Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for credit broking and insurance distribution activities under reference number 310505 – we are a credit broker not a lender. Registered Office: 8 Westerton Road, East Mains Industrial Estate, Broxburn West Lothian EH52 5AU Registered in Scotland No. 14833 VAT Registration No. 269233051.
We work with a number of carefully selected credit providers who may be able to offer you finance for your purchase. We are only able to offer finance products from these providers.