Smooth operator - parking permits go virtual

Bury Council is introducing a new virtual permit system to make life easier for those who use parking permits.

It means that residents, visitors, businesses and contract permit holders will no longer be issued with a paper permit to display in their vehicle. The new system is easy to use and allows customers to create and manage their own permits.

The council issues around 4,000 permits a year. The first virtual permit zone (Hamilton Road area) will go live on 1 January 2018, followed by the Rochdale Old Road area on 1 February, and will be expanded to all such zones over 12 months. All residents, businesses and contract permit holders will receive information and guidance on how to create their new account before their permit renewal date.

Councillor Judith Kelly, cabinet member for corporate affairs and regulatory services, said: “There are always a number of problems when dealing with physical parking permits, such as when people who have them do not display them. There are also occasions when it is claimed that permits, in particular visitor permits, have been lost in the post. This new system will address these issues.

“We have worked with our parking contractor NSL to create the new system, which is designed to be fully flexible and tailored to Bury’s specific needs.”

A step-by-step guide and list of Frequently Asked Questions is on the council’s website at: http://www.bury.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=14043

ENDS

Press release issued: 4 December 2017.