Upfront Andrew Pester on the importance of planning, good governance and diversity The time is now Thank you to everyone who responded to I was fortunate to attend the European our recent consultation regarding our new Parking Association (EPA) Congress in Brussels Strategic Plan 2022-25. The plan has been last month. Speakers and attendees from across informed by member intelligence, reflecting Europe (and beyond) came together to discuss what is happening in the wider world and the future of parking and mobility, and the recognising that things are likely to change. pivotal role that our sector must play in tackling The BPA Council will now finalise and approve some of the biggest global challenges. These our new vision, purpose, and strategic aims. Its include reducing carbon emissions, supporting clear that our Association is needed now more delivery of an EV charging infrastructure, and than ever. Please watch this space! encouraging more active travel. As a not-for-profit Association, it is wonderful The relevance of our leadership activities to see increasing member engagement within such as the Alliance for Parking Data Standards, our governance. The work with government call for service board and others on Its clear that our nominations has digitalisation, and Association is needed now proved very popular. Park Active helps more than ever Elections will take demonstrate the place this month and importance of our we wish everyone who is standing the best of diverse BPA community. luck. Do check out britishparking.co.uk/ I am also delighted to announce that Nigel Elections-Hub for opportunities and updates. Williams, past Chair of the BPA Board, has been Following our successful Parking Scotland elected as the next President of the EPA. Expo in Edinburgh last month, our autumn Last month, we were deeply saddened by schedule of events continues apace. Regional the death of HM Queen Elizabeth II. She was an meetings are taking place in person across inspiration to so many people all over the world. the country and there are a number of virtual We send our deepest condolences to the royal interest group meetings as well, plus our family and wish King Charles III every success. continuing series of Private Parking Code Thank you for your continued support and information webinars. Its great news that our being part of our amazing BPA community. ever popular Members Dinner returns this year, taking place on 23 November at the stunning De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London. BPA chief executive Bookings are now being taken, so make sure andrew.p@britishparking.co.uk you secure your place today. Andrew Pester 3 PN Oct 2022 pp02-03 Upfront.indd 3 23/09/2022 11:08