Motorists will soon be able to pay for parking using their mobile phone under a new electronic system.

The scheme, run by Lambeth Council and PayByPhone, will allow drivers to pay by text message, phone call or by using an application on their smartphone.

The council launched the technology in Waterloo last week and plans to roll it out to other parts of the borough in the new year.

Lorna Campbell, cabinet member for environment and sustainability, said the council would retain some pay and display machines, but hoped increasing numbers of people would see the benefit of paying by phone.

She said: “This is really going to make life easier for motorists. Over time it will also save thousands of pounds, as we will be able to gradually reduce the number of old style pay and display machines as people get used to paying by phone.

“The money we currently spend maintaining pay and display machines could be far better spent on services for residents.”