Fairhill introduces convenient pay-on-arrival parking ahead of Primark opening

With the much-anticipated opening of Primark expected to draw significantly higher footfall, Fairhill Shopping Centre Management has announced the introduction of a new pay-on-arrival parking option to help ease congestion during the busy period.

In a message to customers, management said they had been “reviewing the parking system and have added the option of paying on arrival when you park at the Centre”.

The change, they explained, aims “to help reduce queues at payment machines during what will be an exceptionally busy time”.

Customers will recognise the updated approach, which mirrors the format already used in both private and council-owned car parks across the town. Clear step-by-step instructions are displayed at each machine.

Under the amended system, visitors can choose to pay either when they arrive or when they leave. On using the machine, customers are asked to enter their vehicle registration and then select how long they intend to stay. Management highlighted that “this is the main difference with the new system as customers will have to select one of the time ranges for their stay”.

A new 30-minute tariff has also been introduced for those “just nipping in for some essentials”, alongside options for up to 90 minutes, up to three hours, up to six hours or an all-day stay. Payments can still be made using coins or card.

Should a customer’s visit run longer than expected, they will be able to return to the machine and top up their time before leaving. The traditional pay-on-exit option remains available and follows the same process.

Management noted that as customers adjust to the system, they “will have to keep a note of their timings as they come and go, just as you would in any of the council operated car parks around the town”.

For the fastest and most convenient method of payment, customers are encouraged to use the Ringo parking app with location code 58626.

Fairhill also reminded customers of existing enforcement measures, saying:

“Regarding PCNs, it has always been the case that people contravening the parking system will be issued with a PCN and this is an important aspect of managing the car park for the benefit of all customers.”

Management concluded by acknowledging the initial confusion caused by the adjustment, adding:

“Apologies for any inconvenience caused by introducing this amendment and thanks for your patience.”