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What Craig Carey-Clinch told the British Parking Association …
 First up to the podium (after lunch at the BPA Spring Seminar)
was Craig Carey-Clinch of the Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA), who celebrated the publication of the DTLR advisory leaflet on PTW parking facilities. He discussed the growing popularity of
motorcycles as an alternative means of transport alongside the growing benefits to be had through the provision of proper parking facilities.
The failure of public transport and the decision to make PTWs exempt from London's congestion fees are increasing the number of PTWs (especially mopeds) on the roads. With around 25,000
PTW thefts every year the main area of concern for motorcyclists is the vulnerability of their vehicle whilst unattended. Portability, and the danger that
someone can "pick it up and sling it in the back of a truck" is, according to Carey-Clinch, something that local authorities need to take on board while planning parking. An industry
campaign for secured parking has been running since before 1999, resulting in a 'toolkit' for local authorities interested in providing parking.
When it comes to parking costs Carey-Clinch sees no reason as to why motorcyclists should not pay if secured facilities are offered. Anchor-points are cheap to produce and
immediately affect parking practices providing common facilities for both cyclists and motorcyclists. Signage was also brought up as an important feature for drivers who prefer to
take the secure option if specialised facilities are available.
Following his talk, the BPA’s Chief Executive, Keith Banbury, asked for Craig's opinion on whether motorcyclists are indeed prepared to pay for parking. Craig commented that if
existing bays are simply changed into paid-for-parking, secure or otherwise, the resulting lack of parking choice for motorcyclists may not fare well for public relations but that new
secure paid-for facilities would be welcomed and used.
Editor’s Note: Paying for parking? Bit controversial this one!! Any views from anyone?
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