Louise Parfitt editors comment Never-ending stories Louise Parfitt on a bumper issue and year Parking! What are you going to write about to fill 11 issues each year? I heard this remark a few times earlier this year, when I told friends and acquaintances of my new editors role. And I admit, before I sit down to plan each issue, I have a brief moment of doubt. But then I look at the stories people tell me and Im struck all over again by the groundbreaking nature of this profession, how it connects to our daily lives, and how much there is to say. Just look at this issue. Weve got autonomous pods being trialled in several towns. Stop and think about that for a minute; its mind-blowing! Our last-mile journeys how we travel into and out of urban centres, where we park and how we manage our journeys could be about to change for ever (see pages 20-22). Weve got tales of dedication and bravery from parking professionals that will make your heart sing (pages 27-29), and we find out how Northern Ireland councils are seizing the chance to make parking benefit their local areas (pages 32-33). There are examples of innovation and customer care from some of the best-known names in the industry (pages 24-26), plus a report on the lessons we can take from the car park fire in Liverpool that happened on New Years Eve 2017 (pages 38-39). Add to this the projects to improve city centres (pages 36-37) and revamp major car parks to enable towns to thrive (pages 40-41), and youll see that one of the most challenging aspects of my job is trying to squeeze all of these stories into the magazine! l was so pleased to see so many of you at the recent BPA Members Dinner. It was a fantastic night and a real celebration of all that you have achieved in 2018 (see pages 42-46). Thank you for the welcome you have given me, and for your patience and time during the past year. I am looking forward to covering even more of your brilliant work in 2019. Remember, if you have a story to tell be it about a new bit of kit, an outstanding member of staff, or a challenge youve overcome in support of the Positive Parking Agenda do get in touch with me. Finally, Id like to wish you all a very happy festive season and a peaceful and prosperous new year. Louise Parfitt editor@britishparking.co.uk Britishparking.co.uk 7 PNDec18 pp06-07 Editors Comment.indd 7 26/11/2018 16:08