Aston University

To address the parking challenges, First Parking conducted a thorough site survey to identify the most suitable solution for the City Centre Campus. The campus featured a mix of pay and display systems and barrier parking for staff, which required a unified approach.

Consultation and Planning:

• Collaborating closely with the University, First Parking developed detailed plans for each parking area.
• The plans included recommendations for appropriate signage to facilitate enforcement and inform staff, students, and visitors about parking rules and applicable tariffs.

Implementation of Technology:

• First Parking recommended the installation of new Parkeon machines to replace the existing, malfunctioning ones, ensuring uniformity across the campus.
• A “Pay by Phone” service was introduced, allowing authorised users to pay for parking via a mobile app or at their workstation. This innovation reduced the need for numerous pay and display machines and minimised cash collection efforts.

Enforcement and Integration:

• The University’s own security staff were trained and equipped by First Parking to patrol the campus and issue Parking Charges for violations.
• Samsung handheld devices, linked in real-time to First Parking’s back office, were provided to ensure accurate enforcement.
• First Parking’s software was seamlessly integrated with the University’s in-house permit system, and an online booking system was implemented, streamlining the process for reception and estates teams.

The implementation of the new parking management system yielded significant benefits for the University:

1. Improved Parking Management:
   • The introduction of Parkeon machines and the "Pay by Phone" system standardised parking payments and reduced operational inefficiencies.
2. Enhanced Enforcement:
   • Real-time linked handheld devices allowed security staff to enforce parking rules accurately and efficiently, reducing violations and improving compliance.
3. Increased Revenue:
   • The new system led to a 90% increase in revenue from permits and pay and display systems, highlighting the effectiveness of the implemented solution.
4. Transparency and Fairness:
   • The clear and transparent rollout of the University’s parking policy, combined with improved signage, ensured that all users were well-informed of the rules.
   • Data sharing of persistent offenders increased accountability and fairness in parking management.
5. User Experience:
   • The easy-to-use "Pay by Phone" service improved the experience for staff, students, and visitors, reducing the inconvenience of managing parking on campus.
6. Environmental Impact:
   • The eradication of parking within the Campus green zone contributed to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly campus environment.

Conclusion

The comprehensive approach taken by First Parking, in collaboration with the University, successfully addressed the parking challenges faced by the institution. By leveraging technology, improving enforcement, and ensuring transparency and fairness, the University significantly enhanced its parking management, leading to increased revenue, better user experience, and a more organised and accessible campus.