Department to update On-street Pay & Display parking machines
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Date published:
The Department for Infrastructure (DfI) is starting a programme of work to upgrade and improve the network of on-street pay and display (P&D) parking machines in Belfast, Lisburn and Newry which are now at end-of life.
As part of the programme of work, some machines will be upgraded, some machines will be removed entirely, and a small number will be upgraded but moved to better locations nearby to meet customer demand.
This work is being undertaken as part of the new parking enforcement contract with APCOA. In some locations, multiple machines on the same street may be consolidated into a smaller number of nearby machines.
Key points
- Parking machines are being upgraded as the current machines are end-of life.
- Machines will be placed where they are most needed, based on usage, accessibility, footfall and street layout;
- The total number of machines will fall from 279 to around 150, reducing maintenance and cash collection costs;
- New machines will use pay-by-plate technology, linking parking events with ANPR technology to improve enforcement efficiency;
- Drivers will continue to have a choice between coin and cashless payment;
- Clear signage will be provided to support customers where changes are made, and new machines will have improved visibility; and
- Work will be rolled out in phases, with appropriate arrangements in place on affected streets until machines and signage are in place.
Notes to editors:
- The upgrade of Pay & Display machines is being undertaken as part of the Department’s parking enforcement contract with APCOA. The programme of work will result in the upgrade of all Pay and Display machines, with some being relocated and some being removed. The work will impact all machines in Controlled Parking Zones, Residents’ Parking Zones and charged Park & Ride sites across Belfast, Lisburn and Newry.
- The programme will proceed in four tranches; each tranche will be rolled out street by street. An indicative schedule shows Belfast phases completing by Autumn 2026, Lisburn by mid‑2027 and Newry by Autumn 2027.
- Machines will be replaced, removed or relocated. When a machine is removed, supplementary signage will be installed to support customers including information on cashless payment options. New machines will have a “Please Pay Here” signage displayed.
- The requirement to enter a vehicle registration mark (VRM) applies only to payments at a machine. Customers using the JustPark app or phone line will continue to follow the existing process.
- All media queries should be directed to the Department for Infrastructure Press Office.
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