THE new operators of a controversial Basildon car park will introduce their ticketless service from tomorrow.

REEF Parking, formerly known as ParkJockey LLC, will take over Westgate Car Park in Basildon after previous operators Smart Parking UK had their contract terminated.

REEF will be introducing a ticketless parking system, where people will be able to pay for parking from machines on site or on a mobile app.

Smart Parking suffered enormous criticism from users after they introduced number plate cameras in July last year, with residents claiming they were fined despite paying for parking and the pay machines having consistent faults.

Their machines were shut down in March when management company MJ Mapp took back control of the car park, following a huge campaign from MPs, councillors and residents of Basildon.

REEF parking have stated their new system will have more “payment transparency” and a “more efficient system”.

Barak Zimerman, managing director of REEF for the UK and Europe, said: “We’re excited to take over operations of the Westgate Shopping Park and look forward to working with the local community to provide the level of service they deserve.

“As we launch our new parking solutions at the shopping park, we will work to ensure that we are providing an optimal customer service experience and an accountable, organized means of payment for drivers.”

Signage is expected to go up in the car park today, with full operations beginning tomorrow.

John Baron, MP for Basildon and Billericay, said: “I welcome the change in management, and will be monitoring progress closely. Having expressed my concerns previously, I am hoping there will be an improvement in how this car park is managed for the benefit of constituents.”

Stephen Metcalfe, MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock, said: “We hope that the operators will be much more accommodating for people, and for any small mistakes that are made.

“There will be attendants on site for the first few weeks to help with the new system.”