PARKING machines at two Swindon country parks will be replaced later this month, the council has said.

In recent weeks, visitors to Coate Water and Lydiard country parks have been met with notices telling them to call a phone line to pay for parking or hand in change to the ranger hut.

Parking season ticket holders have expressed frustration that some park visitors appear to have been able to get away without paying for parking. The council, which runs the country parks, says that is not the case and penalty tickets are being given out to non-payers.

A Swindon Borough Council spokesman said: “Our machines are currently being upgraded and will hopefully be reinstated within the next three weeks.

“This does not mean that parking is free. After parking their cars, people can pay by following the instructions on display. It’s quick and easy and, we hope, will not cause too much inconvenience. The money raised from parking charges goes straight back into the upkeep of our parks.

“Penalty charges will be issued to anyone who has not paid for parking.”

Coun Keith Williams has previously said the pay-and-display machines were targeted by thieves, whose raid on the Lydiard Park machines made them just £4.

Labour councillor Jane Milner-Barry hit out at the situation, which has seen the machines out of action for several weeks. She blasted: "This is another example of Tory incompetence. The parking charges are a very important part of Lydiard and Coate's income."

Have you been fined? Call the newsdesk: 01793 501806.