Richmond scraps emissions-based parking charges

The London Borough of Richmond has scrapped its pioneering emissions-based car parking charges following a change of political administration.
Richmond's new cabinet member for traffic said the policy had been "complicated and confusing" and had not cut emissions.
Many drivers found the complexity of the system difficult to understand when parking and paid the wrong tariff. There has also been no clear evidence that the result has resulted in changes in vehicle ownership as had been hoped.
The Borough introduced the emissions-based residents parking scheme in controlled parking zones in April 2007. Permits ranged from £50 to £300 according to the emission class of the vehicle.The principle was extended to all on- and off-street council-operated parking in October 2009.

BPA Introduce Points-Style Initiative

The British Parking Association (BPA) has introduced a points style scheme of sanctions to ensure Approved Operators comply with its Code of Practice for managing parking on private land.
The scheme runs in a similar way to the points system for driving licences. Parking operators will be issued with points up to a maximum of 12 for contravening the BPA Approved Operator Code of Practice. If the maximum points are reached, the operator will automatically be fast-tracked to the BPA Council for a displinary hearing, which can result in expulsion from the scheme.

Benchmark Testing

Benchmark, the only independent source of security product testing data, has introduced a new website to allow installers, specifiers and consultants easier access to independent product performance test data. The new site includes simple-to-find tests and assessments from the publication.
Tests on the site include full ratings and results, and are split into CCTV, Access Control and Intruder Detection sections.
The site also includes Benchmark's Security Index, a quick guide to all the productsthat have achieved Recommended and Outstanding status, with quick links to the full tests.
Further information from: http://www.benchmarkmagazine.com/

SIA launch new website

The Security Industry Authority has launched a new 'easy access' website which they say makes it easier and quicker for viewers to find the right information.
The comprehensive update includes a redesigned interface and site structure, as well as a step-by-step guide that walks potential applicants through all of the steps involved in applying for an SIA licence.
A training provider search tool by geographical region and licensable activity is also one of the new features.
The site can be viewed at http://www.sia.homeoffice.gov.uk/

Parking industry welcomes legislation for clampers

The British Parking Association (BPA) welcomed the news that the Crime and Security Bill had been given Royal Assent.
The clamping provisions of the new Act introduce company licensing for clamping companies who operate on private land. Previously only individuals were required to be licensed. The BPA lobbied the govenment for this change to pursue its objective of raising standards for motorists who park on private land.
Under the plans, to qualify for a license all clamping companies must be licensed by the Security Industry Authority (SIA), and abide by an enforceable Code of Practice such as that used by the BPA's Approved Operator Scheme.
The BPA successfully tabled an amendment to the Bill to introduce an independent appeals service for motorists who cannot get redress from the clamping operator.
 

Atlas alarm over conflicting regulations

In a Business News article Atlas Group managing director Joe Baker has sounded the alarm over "a bewildering array of conflicting regulations and lack of policing" of the automatic security gate installation industry.

The article is the first salvo in a series of measures planned by Mr. Baker to bring home to the Prime Minister and Members of Parliament and, if necessary Brussels, that the "incomprehensible, unworkable and unenforceable" regulations are putting lives at risk.

Click for full article:
http://www.atlasgroup.co.uk/assets/pdf/Business_Monthly_Article_May_2010.pdf

 

CHARTER FOR HOSPITAL PARKING

Many people who attend NHS hospitals expect car parking to be free. However, given the limits on space, the costs involved and the demand for spaces, car parking needs to be managed properly. Charging is often the most effective way to do this.
Recognising this, the British Parking Association has published a Hospital Parking Charter which is designed for both NHS Trusts and car park operators. The aim of the Charter is to strike the right balance between being fair to patients and others, including staff, and making sure the facilities are managed effectively for the good of everyone.
The BPA is encouraging NHS Trusts and car park operators who manage hospital car parks to sign up to this charter and to abide by its letter and spirit.
Further information from the BPA at http://www.britishparking.co.uk/ or Tel: 01444 4320022.