USER-FRIENDLY CAR PARKS - ARE THEY POSSIBLE IN TOWN CENTRES?

The authors attempt to justify their view that user-friendly car parks are possible in town centres, concentrating on the design of multi-storey car parks. The physical structural form and ramp systems are discussed. Signing and the interface between the car park and the development it serves are considered. An examination is made of the problems that can occur in car parks when cars are moving rather than when stationary in parking bays. Opportunities for refurbishment are discussed leading to the removal of the very strong deterrent factor of the dark, dingy and unsafe feeling car parks. An alternative solution, the automated car park, where the car is mechanically parked under computer control, is considered. Examples are given of good practice adopted in several recently constructed or refurbished car parks in the United Kingdom. For the covering abstract see IRRD 883069.