Parkex 2023 Packing a Parkex punch Next month, we return to the NEC for Parkex! Louise Parfitt finds out whats in store, including a new section dedicated to all things EV, plus a bring a buddy offer and some pre-Parkex fundraising fun ast years return to ParkexTraffex at the NEC was so welcomed and appreciated by all exhibitors, speakers, delegates, staff members, and even journalists reporting on the show! The challenge, as always, for BPA staff planning and facilitating the event is how to make sure the following year builds on the successes and highlights. This is what Michelle BoshoffTurner, BPA communications and marketing manager, has been doing since June last year. We take on board what went well, what people loved, and what was not so successful when we are planning all of our events. Parkex is our biggest by far: it offers so much scope to try new things and, if they are a success, develop them for the next year. One of the creations this year is an electric vehicle (EV) theatre on day two, which will run alongside the regular Parkex Hub. This follows on from the popular EV workshop held last year, and aims to showcase new developments, address frequently asked questions and concerns about EV charging provision, and offer guidance on everything from infrastructure to funding and fire safety. Theres also a new bring a buddy initiative this year. Senior parking leaders are invited to bring a member of their team who would not L usually come to Parkex. The individual must be a BPA member, and they can obtain six hours of CPD for attending the event: just come to the BPA stand and this will be sorted out for you. Its a great opportunity to bring people who would not usually come, so they can get a real insight into the opportunities and options the parking profession can offer, says Paula Burton, BPA training and development manager. We need to encourage the next generation, so, by bringing them along, we hope they will feel part of our parking community and inspired to take us into the future. Day one: technology, towns and the future Theres always a real buzz on the first day of Parkex, as stands come to life, the hall fills up, and people catch up with peers they may not have seen for 12 months or longer. This sense of possibility is what the BPA team are tapping into in the Hub, with a day really defined by the technical prowess in our sector. We start off big, with a look at the future of kerbside and town centre parking demand and management, including ensuring accessibility and inclusivity, as well as planning for autonomous vehicles, explains Boshoff-Turner. Continued on page 21 > What you need to know When: 6-8 June Where: NEC, Birmingham What: Three days dedicated to all aspects of parking and traffic management. Who: There will be: experts from across the sector sharing knowledge, best practice, and advice on regulations and the law; new products on show; key speakers from government; inspirational tales from people inside and outside the sector; and a chance to network, relax with colleagues and friends, and immerse yourself in the bigger picture. How: Registration for the event is now open at parkex.net There are several accommodation options close by, but be sure to reserve your room in plenty of time. For assistance in booking your stay, see bit.ly/PNMay23PXA For assistance in planning your journey, see thenec.co.uk/visitors/ getting-here 18 PN May 2023 pp18-23 Parkex Preview.indd 18 25/04/2023 11:22