Drivers in England handed new parking permit rules in 'end of an era'

Bedford Borough Council has updated its parking rules - and changed the way road users and motorists receive parking permits from the local authority in the south of England.

Drivers will see parking measures change as a local authority marks the "end of an era". Bedford Borough Council has updated its parking rules - and changed the way road users and motorists receive parking permits from the local authority in the south of England.

With the new virtual parking permits, there will be no need to display a physical permit - with motorists instead able to do everything online. Once a permit has been applied and paid for online, it will be instantly activated, allowing it to be used immediately.

Councillor Jim Weir, Portfolio Holder for Environment, said, "Virtual parking permits streamline the application process, reduce paper waste, and provide a more user-friendly experience for our residents, businesses and voluntary organisations."

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Councillor Weir further commented: "This move mirrors the government's abolishment of tax discs some time ago, marking a significant step toward modernising our parking services. The application process for parking permits has been online for some time now and anyone less digitally able will continue to find support when needed.

"The convenience of virtual parking permits is undeniable. Residents and businesses will be able to apply for and manage their permits at any time, from anywhere with an internet connection. Gone will be the days of waiting for permits to arrive in the post or searching for the right visitor permit to scratch off. Virtual permits are instantly activated once the application process is complete.”

All applicants will need to register for a parking account before starting an application, all existing permits remain valid until their expiry. Residential, business, and voluntary organisation parking permits, season tickets, and parking waivers:

These will no longer be a physical parking permit that is posted out. The virtual permit will become live as soon as the application process is completed, the council said.