Motorists are voicing their anger as an increasing number of councils phase out cash payments for parking, forcing them to use contactless cards or mobile apps instead.

A survey of more than 13,500 drivers by the AA reveals that two-fifths (40%) of motorists prefer to pay for parking using cash. Among lower-income drivers, this figure rises to over 50%.

However, younger motorists are far less attached to notes and coins. Just 12% of those aged 18-24 cite cash as their preferred payment method, with 37% favouring contactless payment and 35% opting for mobile apps.

As councils continue to move towards cashless parking to cut costs related to coin collection and machine maintenance, many drivers remain fiercely loyal to cash payments.

One AA member stated bluntly: “I only go to car parks that take cash.”

Another said: “If they don’t take cash, I will leave and find somewhere else to park.”

A third added: “I would not park if cash was not accepted.”

One motorist even admitted to leaving a note on their windscreen when unable to pay, writing: “I leave a note in the windscreen complaining about this, and give my contact details so I can pay later.”

For others, the priority is avoiding paid parking altogether. One driver declared: “I go anywhere where there is free parking, and give the area around the car park my custom.” Another simply said: “I never pay for parking: If I have to pay, I don’t park.”

While many businesses and services have moved towards cashless transactions, the previous government urged councils to ensure parking remains accessible for all, including those who prefer or need to pay in cash.

Jack Cousens, head of roads policy for The AA, commented: “Parking the car should be a simple and hassle-free experience, but some drivers are becoming more frustrated as taking cash has become less common.

“During the pandemic, many councils moved to cashless solutions to reduce transmission while still encouraging people to use facilities when allowed. However, lots of local authorities have not returned to cash as the reduced administrative costs proved beneficial to their coffers, and are now going further than some drivers are willing to accept.

“While it is clear that younger drivers prefer contactless payment options, older and low-income drivers want to pay by cash. In fact, some claim they drive on until they can do so. With the High Street already under strain, it seems counterintuitive for car parks to refuse a customer willing to pay.

“Allowing parking to be paid by a multitude of options seems the best solution for both car parks and drivers, but those opting to pay by app should take note that doing so could be more expensive as administration costs are added to the rates.”