Drivers face higher pay and display fees after popular service axed

Mobile network operators (MNOs) have told the Labour Party government that they do not intend to offer 2G and 3G networks beyond 2033 at the latest.
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All drivers face higher parking fees as a nationwide 3G network shutdown forces councils to rethink charges. Mobile network operators (MNOs) have told the Labour Party government that they do not intend to offer 2G and 3G networks beyond 2033 at the latest.

This will support the roll-out of 4G and 5G networks, which will offer faster and more reliable services for customers. Pay and display machines currently rely on 3G networks alongside ANPR devices, payment machines, CCTV, ticket machines, electric vehicle charge points.

Reading Council warned: "The in-service pay and display machines are nearing end of life and critically, support for the machine’s connectivity, which allows the parking service to monitor faults, usage etc will be lost as nationally the 3G network is switched off by three of the four main operators.

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"Operating the machines without this functionality will lead to additional cost, a likely reduction in revenue and a poor customer experience." The local authority added: "The impending switch off of 3G will render the present pay and display machines unable to communicate with the back office.

"This loss of connectivity will mean there will be no access to data or transactions or alerts when a machine is not working." Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon, said: "With the pay and display parking machines being switched off, we are making every effort to ensure that the transition to mobile payment parking is as smooth as possible.

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"We have listened to the issues raised through pilot schemes and are looking to reduce the impact of change wherever possible. Mobile payment for parking should make the system easier and more convenient to use for residents and visitors."

Councillor Mark Hawthorne, LGA digital connectivity spokesperson said: "Councils want to do all they can to minimise the impact of the 2G and 3G network switch off but cannot do it alone. We need Government and telecoms leaders to work together to raise awareness of the transition and what it means for those at the sharp end, including on how best to manage the move to the latest technology."