MOTORISTS are being urged to take advantage of an easy-to-use hands free payment service when charges are reinstated in Barrow's car parks from Monday, July 6.

Charges for the car parks operated by Barrow Borough Council were suspended in March to help prevent the spread of Covid-19.

In order to avoid contact with surfaces on payment machines, motorists are now being advised to pay for their parking through a contactless system called RingGo.

The online platform enables people to pay for their parking without coins, using just a payment card and a phone. There is also a downloadable app.

The RingGo location numbers are listed on signs in car parks. To pay for parking motorists simply have to call the service or use the mobile app.

Barrow Borough Council operates car parks in Portland Walk, Oldham Street, Market Street, Fell Street, Hall Street, Whittaker Street and Emlyn Street.

Free parking will be available in Portland Walk and Whittaker Street after 3pm.

Drivers should remember to follow social distancing measures and to be considerate when getting into and out of their vehicles.

Payment using coins is still available, but motorist’s are advised to cleanse their hands afterwards.

Councillor Ann Thomson, Barrow Borough Council leader, said: “Suspending car parking charges during lockdown was the correct thing to do but now as restrictions begin to ease and non-essential shops and hospitality businesses re-open, it’s time for parking charges to resume in order to meet demand.

“Key workers and NHS staff will still be able to park for free if they put a valid permit on display.

“We would also like to stress that it is still incredibly important for people to remember to maintain a safe distance from others while they are out and about.

“This is another step people can take to help reduce the spread of Covid-19.”