A new cashless paid parking system being rolled out in Athlone this week is being welcomed by the towns Chamber of Commerce.
Motorists can register online or download a mobile app to avail of the service, or they can chose an option on the website that will allow them use a debit or credit card to pay each time they park.
Westmeath County Council is the 15th local authority to introduce the new scheme in Ireland and Athlone Chamber CEO Gerry McInerney says it should help business in the town.
He says recent events have shown that the move away from cash is accelerating and the new pay parking in Athlone is coming at a very opportune time.