The Department for Infrastructure plans to cut the number of machines from 279 to around 150
Motorists are expected to witness the removal of pay and display machines as part of a significant shift towards cashless parking. The Department for Infrastructure currently runs 279 pay and display machines throughout Belfast, Lisburn and Newry.
However, it has revealed plans to reduce its pay and display machines by nearly half. The target is to decrease the number to approximately 150 across Belfast, Newry and Lisburn - a reduction of 129. Councillor Mark Hawthorne, digital connectivity spokesperson for the LGA, said: "Older, legacy infrastructure ranging from parking meters and payment machines to emergency auto diallers and sensors in social housing, may need upgrading or replacing to work on new, faster 4G and 5G networks.
"Time is running out if we are to avoid the fallout from the big switch off. " The new machines will utilise pay-by-plate technology, connecting parking transactions with ANPR technology to enhance enforcement effectiveness, reports Birmingham Live. Motorists will retain the option of paying by either coin or cashless methods. Prominent signage will be installed to assist customers where modifications are implemented, and the new machines will offer better visibility.
Machines will either be replaced, removed or repositioned. Where a machine is taken away, additional signage will be put up to help customers, including details about cashless payment alternatives. The new machines will feature "Please Pay Here" signage. Documents from the DfI state: "The aim of the programme is to modernise on-street parking infrastructure across Belfast, Lisburn and Newry by reducing, relocating and upgrading Pay and Display machines to better reflect current usage patterns.
"The programme will reduce the total number of machines from approximately 279 to around 150, removing underused infrastructure, reducing maintenance and cash collection costs, and improving overall efficiency. " The work will be carried out in stages, with suitable provisions in place on affected streets until the machines and signage have been installed. The requirement to enter a vehicle registration mark is applicable only when making payments at a machine.
Those using the JustPark app or phone line will continue to follow the existing process.
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