As residents of York, we still face substantial difficulties in transitioning to card and app-based payment systems for parking. While embracing technology is essential, it shouldn't come at the expense of individuals who find these changes challenging. It's important to note that not all of York's residents can seamlessly navigate modern technology-oriented payment modalities. Besides, it's unrealistic to assume everyone has access to a payment card or smartphone connected to the internet all the time. Therefore, the decision to completely switch to card and app-based parking payments leaves these residents at a disadvantage.

To ensure the inclusion of all residents and ease the parking payments, it's crucial that all York Council Car Parks continue providing cash payment option. According to data gathered in 2020 by Link (the UK's main cash machine network), 3 million people in the UK almost entirely depend on cash while 8 million people would find difficulties in their life without cash [1].

By retaining cash payments, the York Council would ensure fairness, inclusion, and accessibility, while facilitating a smoother transition to more modern payment methods. Let's join together and petition that all York council car parks maintain the option to use cash for parking payments. Sign this petition and let York Council know that we deserve an equitable payment system accessible to all.