The control of car parking supply and the enforcement of parking regulations are normally regarded as keys to the achievement of local authorities' transport objectives. Local authorities' policies for existing public parking spaces include: (1) reducing the total number of spaces; (2) imposing time restrictions on spaces; (3) applying priority to various groups of parkers; (4) providing appropriate peripheral parking for long-stay commuters; and (5) using variable message signs (VMS) to help drivers to find available parking. The map approach to urban centre parking was devised some years ago as a guide to local authorities. It appraises the effects of parking on the centre, analyses present parking usage and future parking demand, and decides how to make optimal use of the available facilities. A wide variety of maps is used to develop and implement this approach, and formulate an appropriate range of traffic management and parking control measures; the parking plan should never be static. The provision of park-and-ride facilities at peripheral localities can be an integral part of an urban centre's parking plan; most park-and-ride services are bus-based. The successful operation of a significant park-and-ride scheme depends on at least seven features, including reliable, frequent public transport services. For the covering abstract, see IRRD 892228.
Abstract