Ticket machines set to be scrapped

PLANS to remove 29 pay and display parking machines from the streets will be discussed today after a system which allows motorists to pay by mobile phone and credit card was introduced.

By Martin Slack

Published 21st Feb 2011, 11:48 BST

Rotherham Council said it could save more than £14,000 a year in maintenance costs by taking the traditional ticket machines out of service in town centre car parks including popular locations such as the Civic centre and Westgate.

Martin Beard, the authority’s parking services manager, will tell a meeting today that some machines will remain for those unwilling to use mobile phones, but they will be further away from some spaces.

He adds: “The council has recently introduced RingGo in the town centre. This is a system which allows customers to pay for their parking activities by means of a telephone and debit or credit card.

“The council can now realise significant savings.

“There may be a level of objection from customers who are not comfortable with the technology required.

“These customers may have to walk further to pay by the traditional method.

Rotherham Council