NOT having enough change to pay for parking could become a thing of the past in New Forest car parks.

And drivers with mobile phones will find it much easier to park with the introduction of a new cashless parking system.

New Forest District Council is launching Parkmobile’s mobile phone parking solution this month to provide motorists and businesses with an alternative method of paying for parking in 39 of its car parks.

A call to 01590 202050 will activate parking and civil enforcement officers will be able to check payment by using a mobile phone connected to the parking database.

The Parkmobile system is easy to use and drivers can register for free. People will be asked for their mobile phone number, car registration and credit card details.

They can also set up a text alert to remind them when their parking time is due to expire or can call again to extend their stay.

Cllr Chris Treleaven, the council’s portfolio holder for planning and transportation, said: “Some of our car parks can be found in beautiful, but very remote locations, in the New Forest and we wanted to reduce the inconvenience for drivers who find themselves without the correct change to pay for their parking.

“With Parkmobile, they can simply make one call on their mobile phones and pay directly. It’s a great service.”

The council’s parking manager, John Bull, said: “The council welcomes the Parkmobile parking management system. It will enable us to automate our processes, increase departmental efficiency and, as a result, improve the service provided to our residents.”