BPA independent research Our survey said The BPAs head of public affairs and communications Dave Smith and head of technology, innovation and research Julian OKelly share the key results of the first fully representative research study that asked people what they really think about parking he BPA has always been eager to transform perceptions of parking. The media paints a general picture of dissatisfaction, so it is important that the Association takes a leading role in challenging this. For the first time, a ground-breaking piece of research reveals what the public really thinks. As part of a far-reaching study, research agency ICM conducted a survey of more than 3,000 UK participants, strengthened with findings and insights from six focus groups. The research covered a broad spectrum of issues and T topics related to parking, with an even split of respondents relating their experience to public or private parking. One of the key aims was to provide deeper insights that will help our members improve the parking experience, change public attitudes and bust some myths. The BPA also wanted to be better informed so it can continue to advise the government accurately, supported by a genuine understanding of the publics experience of parking. One of the key aims was to provide deeper insights that will help our members to improve the parking experience Research main points The first fully representative public perceptions study of its kind Findings from six focus groups and more than 3,000 survey participants across the UK Broadly positive findings against a backdrop of negative press coverage Three-quarters of those surveyed had not received a ticket recently Support for PCNs as a deterrent Support for enforcement of obstructive and anti-social parking General findings Overall, the results of the research are broadly positive. The majority of participants agreed that parking tickets are effective in deterring drivers from contraventions, and this is also reflected by three-quarters of those surveyed having not received a ticket recently. Congestion particularly during the school run coupled with anti-social and obstructive parking were cited as key areas of frustration where the public wanted more active enforcement. Satisfied customers? In terms of where people park, supermarkets and retail sites produced a positive satisfaction level of more than 70 per cent. 34 britishparking.co.uk PN May20 pp34-35 BPA research.indd 34 23/04/2020 13:11