Royal Holloway, University of London

To address these challenges, First Parking conducted a comprehensive survey of all parking areas on the campus. The survey focused on identifying the most suitable technology to replace the existing system and to introduce a solution that was effective, user-friendly, and aligned with the University’s needs.

Introduction of ANPR System and Online Permit Application:

• First Parking recommended the implementation of an Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system at all campus entrances and exits. This system would automatically capture vehicles entering and leaving the campuses, ensuring accurate tracking of all parking activities.
• Alongside the ANPR system, an online permit application system was introduced. Staff and students could apply for parking permits online, streamlining the process and reducing administrative burdens. Once an application was approved by the University, the vehicle was granted access to the relevant parking zone.

Tendering and Contract Award:

• After a thorough review and competitive tendering process, First Parking was awarded a five-year contract to manage the University’s parking system.

Integration and System Configuration:

• First Parking introduced a University-wide registration system that allowed over 100 separate users from different departments to manage parking permits, bookings, and enforcement activities.
• The permit system was seamlessly integrated with ANPR technology, handheld enforcement devices, and the University’s booking system. This integration ensured real-time communication between all components, enabling accurate and efficient enforcement.
• Specific parking bays were made available for advance booking, with different grace periods configured for each enforcement zone. The system was also designed to allow for non-enforcement on specific days, such as open days, providing flexibility to accommodate University events.

Enforcement and Monitoring:

• The University’s Parking Enforcement Officers were equipped with handheld devices linked in real-time to First Parking’s back office. These devices were capable of checking permits, booking information, and issuing Parking Charges directly linked to the ANPR system.
• First Parking’s back office team provided continuous monitoring and support, manually checking all contraventions against the permit and booking systems to ensure enforcement accuracy.

The implementation of the new parking management system at Royal Holloway has led to significant improvements, benefiting staff, students, and visitors alike. With over one million traffic movements on and off the campus each year, the new arrangements have delivered the following advantages:

1. Real-Time Information and Transparency:
   • The system provides real-time information on all aspects of parking management, from permit applications to enforcement activities, ensuring transparency and accountability.
2. Maximised Parking Accessibility and Fairness:
   • The new system has improved the allocation of parking spaces, ensuring that parking is more accessible and fair to all users.
3. Clear and Transparent Parking Policy Rollout:
   • The University’s parking policy was rolled out clearly and transparently, with the support of First Parking’s back office team, which works in close collaboration with the University to adhere to its rules and regulations.
4. Enhanced Campus Safety and Compliance:
   • The introduction of ANPR technology and the integration with enforcement systems have significantly improved compliance with parking regulations, contributing to a safer campus environment.
5. Accurate and Efficient Enforcement:
   • The ANPR system, combined with manual checks by the back office team, ensures high enforcement accuracy, reducing disputes and improving the overall effectiveness of the parking system.
6. Data Transparency and Sharing:
   • The system offers full transparency of data, including sharing information about persistent offenders, which helps in maintaining consistent enforcement and improving user compliance.
7. Clear and Compliant Signage:
   • The installation of clear and compliant signage throughout the campus has further supported the enforcement process and informed users of the parking regulations.
8. Customised System Configuration:
   • The entire system was configured to meet the specific needs and specifications of the University, ensuring that it aligns perfectly with the institution’s requirements.

Conclusion

The partnership between Royal Holloway, University of London, and First Parking has successfully transformed the University’s parking management system. By introducing advanced technology, such as ANPR and an online permit application system, the new solution has reduced administrative burdens, increased fairness and accessibility, and enhanced the overall user experience. The modernised parking system has not only improved compliance and safety on campus but also demonstrated the value of a well-integrated and customised approach to parking management in a complex university environment.