Car parking management strategies
The management of car parking as a resource can play a pivotal role in the development of incentives for walking, cycling, public transport use and for car sharing.
Why manage parking facilities?
Parking provision represents a major financial overhead, in terms of the additional land required and its maintenance.
This cost can be particularly high in densely developed areas of high commercial value such as business or retail centres. Meanwhile, subsidised parking favours car-based commuting and makes it difficult for alternative forms of transport to compete.
Where on-site parking is restricted, off-site parking by employees and visitors must be taken into consideration.
The aims of parking management
The objectives of car park management should be to prioritise usage on the basis of specific functions or requirements, such as parking for mobility-impaired employees, visitor parking for clients or customers, specific car sharing spaces and other essential users.
Provide priority parking spaces for car sharers
Reserving prime spots near the building entrance and clearly labelling them 'car share only' will help reward Responsible Car Users and help publicise the possibility of car sharing to everyone who visits your premises.
Meeting the needs of all users
A car-parking strategy with a needs-based approach is often well received and entails a thorough examination of issues, such as what defines an essential car user.
Car parking strategies must not discriminate against any particular group and must be balanced with the availability of alternatives. The key to an effective parking management strategy is often to couple it with a well-organised car sharing scheme and the provision of alternatives.
The parking strategy must also take account of the layout and design of the car parks to ensure efficiency of operation and the maintenance of good Health & Safety.
The need for consultation
Any options considered must be carefully evaluated and you must consult with everyone who will be affected.
The introduction of a new car parking regime must also be managed sensitively and the reasons behind any changes clearly communicated along with the benefits they will bring.
Resolving issues around off-site parking
With the introduction of parking management, use of free on-street parking in the surrounding area needs to be avoided. Discussions with Local Authorities are often required in order to identify a satisfactory strategy in this regard.
Successfully tackling the issue of off-site parking will be welcomed by your commercial and residential neighbours.
