Parking changes due at 42 railway stations

Southeastern has announced that the way passengers pay for parking at 42 stations on its network will change from 24 February.

The pay and display system will be replaced by an Automatic Number Plate Register (ANPR).

The rail operator said parking cannot be paid for at a train station ticket office but cash, card and digital payments at most stations will remain.

Alicia Andrews, commercial director at Southeastern, said: "We are continuing to invest in our stations and our car parks to make it simpler, easier and more welcoming to travel by train."

The new system is also described as "more secure" by Southeastern as it will recognise number plates when vehicles enter the car park.

It added that it will also help to ensure all customers pay for their parking and ANPR will provide more data on car park usage.

Passengers can still pay by using numbers provided on signs at the station or by using the app or website.

Vehicles do not need to buy a ticket if they are picking up or dropping off for less than 20 minutes.

Blue Badge holders can continue to park for free but must register their vehicle in advance and there will also be a new taxi portal.

Ms Andrews added: "ANPR is already widely used by a range of parking providers and is popular with customers because it is so convenient and simple to use."

Some of the stations where changes are coming are Ashford International, Dartford, Hastings, Paddock Wood and Stonegate.

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