Panel Reviews Changes to Public Parking Facilities
The panel has proposed significant changes to public parking facilities aimed at modernizing services and enhancing user experience. These changes include the introduction of parking charges in previously free areas and a standardized overnight charge across various council-managed car parks.
Overview of Proposed Parking Changes
The changes under consideration involve charging for parking in 22 off-street car parks that currently do not impose fees. A total of 49 council-managed locations will be affected. Public consultations were held from January 14 to February 6, 2026, to gather feedback on these modifications, which are part of the formal procedure needed for establishing a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO).
Key Aspects of the Proposal
- Introduction of charges at free parking locations.
- Standardized overnight parking fees.
- Transition to mobile app and telephone payments by 2030.
Feedback received during the consultation has led to some recommendations. For instance, Gunsite and Derby Pool car parks may join the existing country park parking permit scheme, while Fort Perch Rock will not, given its focus on shopping and leisure.
Phased Decommissioning of Pay-and-Display Machines
Another critical aspect of the proposal is the gradual removal of traditional pay-and-display parking machines. This initiative seeks to replace these machines with mobile app and telephone payment options. A meeting on March 10 will discuss plans for this progressive transition, which aims to address maintenance costs and the outdated nature of existing equipment.
Data indicates a national trend where many UK councils are eliminating pay-and-display systems in favor of cashless payments. The report highlights that retaining these machines is neither financially sustainable nor operationally viable.
Current Cashless Parking System
Wirral has implemented a cashless parking system through JustPark, operational for over six years. This modern system allows users to:
- Pay via mobile app or phone in under a minute.
- Receive expiry reminders.
- Extend parking sessions remotely.
- Access digital parking histories and VAT receipts.
Every transaction incurs a 6p fee, reflecting the efficiency and convenience of the system.
Implementation Timeline
The proposed changes are set to begin in 2026/27. Initially, some existing machines will be relocated to new locations introducing parking charges. The number of machines will be reduced to one per car park by 2027/28, with complete removal anticipated by the end of 2030.
Supporting Wirral’s Parking Strategy
These parking proposals align with the Wirral Parking Strategy, which focuses on modernizing payment methods and optimizing parking space management. As parking services are discretionary, council operations must adhere to a balanced budget while ensuring the long-term sustainability of public parking facilities.
