BCP Council is removing the ability for drivers to use a choice of car park apps from next month after signing an exclusive deal with RingGo.
From September 1st, users will only be able to use one app instead of having a choice of many, including Pay By Phone, and the Just Park app.
The change follows the end of contracts with those providers and a competitive tender process, which saw RingGo awarded the new contract.
Council leaders say the decision will simplify the process for motorists, as well as reduce administration costs and save staff time. The aim is to help keep any future parking price increases to a minimum, although all signage in every car park will need to change to reflect the move.
Amanda Barrie, the council’s Director of Commercial Operations, said the move would make paying for parking quicker and more secure. She explained that consolidating all payments into one platform also cuts running costs, freeing up resources for other priorities.
The council is encouraging drivers who are not yet registered with RingGo to sign up in advance for a smoother experience. They have also reminded the public that QR codes will not be used for payment or registration, and all transactions should be made directly through RingGo’s official app or website.
The change applies to all council-run car parks in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.
The move to a single provider mirrors similar decisions taken by other councils to simplify parking systems.