A NEW cashless parking system is being introduced in all Wyre Forest District Council-owned car parks from April 1.

The MiPermit system will be available in pay and display car parks, replacing the JustParking app.

Using the app means motorists do not need change to buy a ticket and can also extend the parking time without having to return to their vehicle. 

It costs 10p per transaction which is added to the parking charge. There is no top-up fee when someone wants to pay for extra time. Motorists can also pay 10p for a text reminder of when their parking is due to run out. Parking can be paid for up to 7 days in advance. 

The MiPermit app is an additional payment method and motorists can still pay with coins apart from in Bateman’s Yard in Kidderminster where only card or the app are currently accepted. Payments for season tickets will also be processed on MiPermit. 

Parking charges are not changing but two new tariffs are being introduced. There will be a 30-minute rate which is being introduced on Saturday, April 1. 

There is also going to be an overnight parking charge. This will be introduced in long-stay car parks from April 1 and in short-stay car parks from Friday, April 14. 

Steve Brant, head of community and environment services said: "Parking apps make it really easy for people who don’t have the correct change to pay for their parking. Many people are now opting to use them as they are so convenient. With MiPermit you can top up your payment and extend your stay without going back to your car. 

"Parking charges and season ticket prices are being frozen and a new half an hour rate at 70p and also a £2 ticket for parking between 6pm and 8am are being introduced.”

The MiPermit app is free and available from app stores. Users who don’t have a smartphone can book their parking by calling, by text or by paying online in advance.