People visiting Crystal Palace Park via car will have to pay for parking from early summer despite it previously being free.

Crystal Palace Park Trust has announced parking charges in all its public car parks from June 6, 2024 to support park upkeep and improvements.

The payments can be made using the Pay by Phone or Sippi apps, over the phone, or at one physical pay point located in Thicket Road car park.

Card is the only mode of payment accepted.

Parking fees range from £2 for an hour, £4 for two hours, and then an additional £1 for every additional hour.

The charges apply during park opening hours, and overnight parking is strictly prohibited and will attract a Penalty Charge Notice.

The park gates will be open 7 days a week, 365 days a year from 7.30am.

Closing times align with dusk and vary throughout the year, with exceptions to these hours possible during event days.

The parking infrastructure uses Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras, installed at the car park entrances.

Payment facilities are provided by none other than UK Car Parking Management.

A 30-minute grace period is provided for those dropping off or picking up people.

Charges will be enforced using the ANPR cameras, which will track when vehicles enter and exit the car park, as well as parking wardens who check for correct parking and that Blue Badge holders are using the appropriate spaces.

Blue Badge holders are not required to pay parking fees but they will have to register their vehicle using the Sippi app or ticket machine to avoid any misunderstanding.

The wardens will also check Blue Badges against registered vehicles for compliance.

When asked why the charges were necessary, Crystal Palace Park Trust said: “It costs a lot of money to keep Crystal Palace Park well maintained.

“The charges will help enable Crystal Palace Park Trust to care for and improve the park, ensuring it is a pleasant and safe place for everyone to enjoy – now and in the future.

“We also want to encourage more people to visit the park on foot, bicycle or public transport where possible, lowering pollution and contributing to a healthier environment for plant life, animals and visitors.”