Don't Force Drivers to Use Parking Apps, RAC Says
The Royal Automobile Club (RAC) has warned against making mobile apps the only option for drivers to pay for parking, citing widespread issues with signal strength and app recognition.
According to a survey by the RAC, three-quarters of drivers reported problems with parking apps, with poor phone signal in car parks being the most common complaint. The study also found that many drivers struggled with apps not recognizing their location within the car park.
The RAC welcomed the government's National Parking Platform (NPP), which aims to standardize parking payments and reduce the need for multiple apps. However, the organization emphasized that local authorities and parking companies must sign up to the platform in order for it to be effective.
"We believe that parking operators should offer drivers at least two different ways to pay," said Rod Dennis, RAC senior policy officer. "Parking should be one of the simplest tasks any driver completes, but having to navigate a variety of differently designed apps and register an account, vehicle details, and bank cards with each one can be a pain."
The NPP is set to expand in the coming months, allowing drivers to pay for parking using a single app or website. However, the RAC warned that this will only be effective if more local authorities and parking companies join the platform.
"Parking operators should not force drivers to use mobile apps when they don't want to," Dennis said. "Especially those who struggle with technology."
The RAC's concerns are backed by a recent survey of 2,000 drivers, which found that many were frustrated with the complexity of parking payment systems. The study also highlighted the need for greater transparency and consistency in parking charges.
In response to the RAC's warning, a government spokesperson said: "We understand the importance of making parking payments as simple and convenient as possible for drivers. We are working closely with local authorities and parking companies to ensure that the NPP is effective and widely adopted."
The expansion of the NPP is expected to be completed by the end of the year, pending further sign-ups from local authorities and parking companies.
Background
The National Parking Platform was launched in 2020 as a way to standardize parking payments across the UK. The platform allows drivers to pay for parking using a single app or website, reducing the need for multiple apps and making it easier to navigate complex payment systems.
Implications
The RAC's warning highlights the potential consequences of forcing drivers to use mobile apps for parking payments. If not implemented correctly, this could lead to increased frustration and confusion among drivers, potentially resulting in decreased compliance with parking regulations.
Next Developments
The expansion of the NPP is expected to be completed by the end of the year, pending further sign-ups from local authorities and parking companies. The RAC will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.
In related news, a recent study found that many drivers are unaware of the benefits of using mobile apps for parking payments, highlighting the need for greater education and awareness among motorists.
*Reporting by Bbc.*
