Touted as “the future of UK parking,” the National Parking Platform (NPP) was designed to eliminate the hassle of managing multiple parking apps by allowing drivers to pay using just one app of their choice.

However, uncertainty now looms over the project’s future after the government decided to withdraw its financial backing, despite years of development and plans for a nationwide rollout.

The NPP, initiated by the Department for Transport (DfT) in 2019, aimed to simplify parking payments by integrating various apps and linking thousands of council and privately-owned parking sites into a single system. Live trials began in 2021, and the scheme was officially launched by Rishi Sunak’s government in September 2023, with an expected full rollout in late 2024.

However, with taxpayer funding set to end in March, the Labour government has indicated it believes the platform should move forward without public money, citing financial challenges inherited from the previous administration.

The RAC expressed doubts about the project’s viability without government support, stating: “Without any funding, it’s hard to see how any further progress can be made.”

Currently, there are at least 30 different parking apps in the UK, including popular ones like RingGo, PayByPhone, and JustPark. A 2024 Autocar survey found that more than 80% of motorists dislike using parking apps, preferring cash or contactless payments instead. Age UK also reported that many older people struggle with app-based parking systems, leaving them frustrated and unable to park.

Simon Williams, the RAC’s head of policy, noted that many drivers feel overwhelmed by the number of apps required to park in different locations. “Ideally, people want a single app they’re comfortable with and can use everywhere,” he said.

In response to a written question, Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood confirmed Labour’s support for the NPP’s concept but maintained that the initiative should be industry-led rather than reliant on taxpayer funding. She added that the pilot version would continue receiving financial support until March while discussions on its future take place.

A DfT spokesperson reiterated the government’s stance, stating: “We support the NPP and believe the parking sector is both willing and capable of delivering it without public funding. We are working closely with them to determine how this can be achieved.”