Stephen Gabriel, chief executive for Tamworth Borough Council, said:
"We are deeply disappointed to report a series of thefts from a number of our car park machines.
“While the amount of money stolen is not substantial, the cost to repair or replace the damaged machines is far higher, and unfortunately, as a result of these thefts, a number of parking machines are out of action.
“This is extremely frustrating for everyone involved. We want to reassure the public that keeping our car parks safe and accessible is a priority for us, and we are doing everything we can to resolve the issue.
“In the meantime, we ask that residents and visitors make use of alternative car parks where possible or take advantage of our pay-by-phone app or call 0330 400 7275to make a card payment over the phone. (The car park location number can be found on each machine). We encourage anyone who witnesses any suspicious activity or experiences problems with our car park machines to report it to the police immediately.
“We also remind people that our machines do not use any QR codes for parking charges. If you see any QR codes on parking signs or machines, please DO NOT SCAN THEM.”
To find out where all Tamworth Borough Council’s carparks are situated and current parking charge costs, please check on the council website here: www.tamworth.gov.uk/car-parks.
The criminal damages have currently resulted with no working machines on Albion Street or Marmion Street, Castle car park, Bolebridge Island and only one machine on Spinning School Lane.