Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a new permit/season ticket?
A permit/season ticket is available via RingGo on the app or the website RingGo Cashless Parking Solution and is valid in one nominated car park only,
1. Register or log in to a RingGo account
2. Search in the search bar at the top – using your preferred car park code shown below
3. Follow the on screen instructions, choosing the correct vehicle reg no, 1 year duration and correct car park
4. Continue to payment
12667 - High Street Car Park
12668 - Stirling Place Car Park
12669 - Stirling Street Car Park
12670 - Ladhope Vale Car Park
12671 - Hall Place Car Park
12672 - O'Connell Street Car Park
12673 - Cross Wynd Car Park
12674 - Walters Wynd Car Park
12675 - Teviot Road Car Park (Health Centre)
12676 - Allars Crescent Car Park
12677 - Edinburgh Road Car Park
12678 - Greenside Car Park
12679 - Swimming Pool Car Park
12680 - Melrose Abbey Car Park
Why are there changes to parking in the Borders?
In July 2026, a new parking policy was approved as there was concern that the car parks in the Borders were a mix of times and charges and we now have a clearer and more consistent approach for residents, visitors and businesses.
The changes are expected to improve space availability and turnover in key locations, support local economic activity, and generate additional income that can be managed transparently and reinvested (within the limits of the law) in parking provision, public transport and road improvement priorities. It also enables a more equitable approach, so that the benefits of parking income can be distributed more fairly across the Scottish Borders.
The permit parking costs have not been reviewed for many, many years and the cost of a new permit will be £107.20 which works out at £2.06 per week.
The review was commissioned to address long-standing inconsistencies between towns and villages, modernise the policy and ensure that parking arrangements support economic vitality, accessibility and fairness.
A central aim is to enable parking-related income (where generated) to be managed transparently and consistently, so that benefits can be delivered across all communities.
- standardise off-street parking charges, days and hours where charging already applies
- extend pay and display (and enforcement) to further Council car parks on a phased basis, following the required statutory processes
- modernise permits and strengthen compliance arrangements
- apply clear legal and governance rules to how any parking surplus can be used, so funding decisions are transparent and consistent
Will there be an increase in permit charges?
Yes. From 19 October 2026 permits will cost £107.20.
I have a Blue Badge, can I park for free in pay and display car parks?
Yes, but you must ensure your Blue Badge is displayed and that you are fully parked within a marked bay.
How do I apply for a new permit?
New digital permits/season tickets will be available from 19 October 2026 through the RingGo app or by calling 0131 516 4000.
Why the increase from £26 to £107.20?
The revised permit/season ticket charge continues to represent good value, at approximately £2 per week. Parking permit prices have remained unchanged for several years, the increase brings us into line with other Scottish Councils