Drivers planning staycations in Cornwall face a significant rule change from August 1, 2026. Cornwall Council has confirmed that payment machines in several council-run car parks across the region will stop accepting cash from that date.
Cashless Transition from August 1, 2026
The council stated that 90% of transactions are already made using card payments, either through the JustPark app or the Buzzpay website. This shift reflects a broader trend toward digital payments.
Cornwall Council confirmed: "From 1st August 2026, a number of Cornwall Council Car Parks will become 'Cash Free' and stop accepting cash payments. Payments can be made via Debit Card, contactless payment or via our mobile payment providers. Many of our car parks will still accept cash payments at the Pay & Display machines."
Cost Savings and Continued Cash Options
Dan Rogerson, Cornwall Council cabinet member for transport, explained the rationale: "It currently costs around £100,000 a year to collect, transport and process cash from the 138 council car parks which accept cash and card. This is money that could be far better spent on maintaining our car parks and wider highway network."
While most users pay by card, online, or mobile phone, around 12% still pay by cash. To accommodate them, 43 car parks across Cornwall will retain cash payment options. Rogerson added: "We've reviewed cash usage levels, accessibility and location to ensure that drivers who want to pay by cash can continue to do so in each town, in Truro and at other locations where we have just the one car park."
JustPark Wallet Savings for Residents
Residents who regularly park in council car parks can reduce costs with the JustPark wallet. Using the wallet, drivers can park all day in most long-stay car parks across Cornwall for less than £3. Drivers can continue to pay at payment machines using debit or credit cards, contactless payment, or mobile phones.
This change is part of a broader move toward efficiency and digital convenience, but staycationers should plan ahead to avoid inconvenience.
