New digital parking permit scheme that replaces physical documents in car windows is slammed as 'an absolute failure' by drivers just one month after its launch

Residents have slammed a new parking scheme that replaces physical permits in car windows with digital versions as an 'absolute failure' just one month after its launch.

Reading Borough Council introduced the new scheme last month and it has already come under heavy criticism from locals.

The new system was put through a six-month trial in the Lower Caversham area of Reading from November last year to April. 

The council said 'the vast majority' of residents found the new system 'easier and quicker'.

However, many locals using the system have complained that they are having difficulty obtaining the new digital permits due to issues with the council's website. 

Emily Lowson told The Reading Chronicle: 'I purchased my new digital permit about a month ago. The new system is complex and confusing to navigate. 

'I've had nothing to tell me my new permit has been activated, the only thing I know is that the money has gone from my bank account! 

'My old permit expires next week yet I still have nothing to tell me I'm covered. Not a great improvement in my experience.'

Claire Mitchell said: 'We had the trial here where I live in lower Caversham - It's been an absolute failure for me - a disaster. 

'I had to work hard - including communication via councillors - to get an exception to keep my paper permit due to family circumstances.

'I wish Reading Borough Council would spend more money on more important issues and invest in better projects.'

Stephen McLovin-Asbury, who also lives in lower Caversham, said: 'I've spent the last four days attempting to apply for a permit with the website not allowing me to continue, so I phoned the council.

'So after spending 15 minutes on hold I got through and am now waiting for them to phone me back because I can't apply for one over the phone.

'I can't leave my car at home in the permit spaces because I might get a ticket and my visitor passes have expired.

'You need to have proof of ownership of the car so my mum couldn't renew it for me as she usually does (we used to live on the same road so instead of purchasing a new one I renewed hers when she got a moped) it's a slow website and the operator couldn't do anything to help me.

'So far I'm not impressed that I have to wait for a phone call during my work day while stressing about getting a ticket.'

A council spokesperson said: 'The introduction of the residents' digital parking scheme was successfully launched in November, and we are pleased to report that to date the vast majority of residents have found it to be an easier and quicker way to apply for and renew their permits.

'As with any new system, there have been a small number of issues which have been raised and we are actively working with our supplier to resolve these and make improvements.'