Post by Alight on Jun 10, 2008 14:05:17 GMT
Today marks 50 years of the classic west-end parking meters.
For me I've always preferred the novelty over the boring P&D machines - okay I don't drive so the costings doesn't bother me - because, I dunno, they're just different.
Unfortunately, in recent years we've seen thefts of the vulnerable meters and hence a rise in P&Ds so I always try and argue against the P&Ds by stating meters are more environmentally friendly; they require no mains power (even if P&Ds do receive some solar) and they do not exploit the rain forest with the issuing of tickets!
One idea of mine to try and save the meter was the concept of "Oyster meter" in which meters can be topped up with the oyster card, without the need of inserting cash - but I'm sure this would still manage to be an issue.
Unfortunately, by October this year both the P&Ds + meters will be scrapped in favour for pay by phone/Scotch cards. I did see the other day a meter which excepted coins but could also be topped up remotely by phone, it suggested (Outside ST. James park station) - but I think the method probably can be done without the need of any form of meter at all. It is slightly irritating for those who don't have a mobile, or who have run out of credit.
For me I've always preferred the novelty over the boring P&D machines - okay I don't drive so the costings doesn't bother me - because, I dunno, they're just different.
Unfortunately, in recent years we've seen thefts of the vulnerable meters and hence a rise in P&Ds so I always try and argue against the P&Ds by stating meters are more environmentally friendly; they require no mains power (even if P&Ds do receive some solar) and they do not exploit the rain forest with the issuing of tickets!
One idea of mine to try and save the meter was the concept of "Oyster meter" in which meters can be topped up with the oyster card, without the need of inserting cash - but I'm sure this would still manage to be an issue.
Unfortunately, by October this year both the P&Ds + meters will be scrapped in favour for pay by phone/Scotch cards. I did see the other day a meter which excepted coins but could also be topped up remotely by phone, it suggested (Outside ST. James park station) - but I think the method probably can be done without the need of any form of meter at all. It is slightly irritating for those who don't have a mobile, or who have run out of credit.
