New car park payment machines
We’re installing new, fast, easy to use payment machines in our car parks from 24 November 2025 to make it simple and convenient for you to park your vehicle.
Feedback from the July 2025 consultation on our car parking strategy review showed that many of you supported moving to cashless payment options, replacing the outdated current machines and implementing ticketless options. That feedback is reflected in the changes we are now making.
Here’s everything you need to know:
Where are the new payment machines going?
In all Harborough District Council owned car parks.
When are they being installed?
The first new payment machines will be installed from 24 November in Market Harborough, followed by Lutterworth.
Installation across all of our car parks will take around two to three weeks. The new machines will all be installed before Christmas 2025 bringing added convenience for shoppers.
How do I use them?
The new machines use touch screen technology and are fast and easy to use.
When you have parked your vehicle, you simply need to follow the on-screen instructions on the machine:
- Touch the screen to start the process
- Enter your vehicle registration number
- Select the duration of your stay
- Pay for your parking
Which payment methods can I use?
The machines are designed for fast, easy payments.
The new standard payment machines accept both contactless card and cash payments.
In some larger car parks, there will also be additional, smaller payment machines that accept contactless card payments only.
Contactless payments include Google Pay and Apple Pay phone payments.
Both types of machines will be clearly signposted by yellow Pay Here signs showing the payment methods accepted.
Please note that the new machines will never require payment via a QR code.
Do I need to display a ticket in my vehicle?
No, the new machines will not give you a ticket. Instead, your vehicle details are stored electronically.
Our car parking officers can check that you have paid on their hand-held devices.
If you pay at one of the standard cash and contactless card machines you can opt to receive a physical receipt. This is for your information only and should not be displayed in your vehicle.
If you pay at one of the smaller, additional contactless card only machines your receipt will only be available electronically by scanning the on-screen QR code with your smartphone at the end of the transaction.
Can I still pay via the PayByPhone app or by phone?
Yes. Download the PayByPhone app directly from the App Store or Google Play Store or visit the website by entering PayByPhone.co.uk directly into the search bar.
If you are paying by app your parking session will be displayed in the app.
Only download apps from the official App Store or Google Play Store.
Dial 0330 400 7275 to use the automated phone line.
How do I get help if I have a problem at one of the machines?
The new payment machines are designed with simplicity, speed and ease of use in mind. Simply follow the instructions on screen.
Signage will be in place near to the machines to help you.
If you see a faulty machine, then please report it by calling us on 01858 828282.
What should disabled or blue badge customers do?
As before, blue badge holders can park for three hours, free of charge in all of our car parks.
Please display your clock showing the time of arrival.
You can buy extra time to add to your free three hours if you wish to.
Visit our parking permits page for further information.