Staines-upon-Thames Car Park Transforms to Ticketless System

URGENT UPDATE: Major changes are coming to the car park systems in Staines-upon-Thames, with Spelthorne Borough Council confirming a transition to a completely ticketless payment solution effective from Monday, October 27. This new system will utilize advanced automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) technology, revolutionizing the way drivers access the Elmsleigh surface and multi-storey car parks.

The Elmsleigh car parks, which accommodate a total of 835 vehicles—511 in the multi-storey and 324 in the surface lot—are crucial for visitors to the bustling shopping center and nearby town. Local councillors are hailing this upgrade as a significant move towards modernizing local infrastructure and improving the convenience of visits during peak times.

Cllr Malcolm Beecher, chair of the council’s environment and sustainability committee, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “We are delighted to introduce this smart, ticketless parking solution. It’s a major step forward in modernizing local infrastructure and making visits to Staines-upon-Thames smoother and more convenient, particularly during busy periods.”

Under the new system, drivers can enter the car parks without stopping to collect a physical ticket. Upon exiting, motorists will simply input their vehicle registration number at a payment machine and can pay via cash or card. Additionally, the RingGo app will continue to be an option for payments, eliminating the need to enter a number plate at entry, although users should note that extra charges will apply when using this app.

This shift not only enhances user experience but also contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing paper waste. The council emphasizes that the ticketless approach aligns with modern demands and will streamline parking in one of Surrey’s busiest areas.

As the October 27 date approaches, residents and visitors alike are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the upcoming changes to ensure seamless transitions to this innovative parking solution. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as the Elmsleigh car parks prepare for their transformation.