As the owner or manager of a retail park, you know that parking can be a major challenge. With limited spaces and high traffic, it’s important to have a reliable parking enforcement system in place. That’s where ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) comes in.
ANPR is a cutting-edge technology that uses cameras to scan the number plates of vehicles entering and exiting your retail park. This data is then used to enforce parking regulations, such as maximum stay limits and allow-list management. ANPR can be used alongside traditional methods, such as kiosks and enforcement officers, to ensure that parking spaces are used fairly and efficiently.
One of the key advantages of ANPR is its transparency. Unlike traditional methods, which can be subject to human error or bias, ANPR provides an objective and impartial record of parking violations. This can be particularly important in situations where disputes arise, as the data captured by ANPR cameras can be used as evidence.
Another advantage of ANPR is its flexibility. ANPR systems can operate 24/7, which means that parking enforcement can be carried out at all times, even outside of normal business hours. This can be particularly useful for retail parks that have tenants who operate outside of traditional opening hours, such as cinemas or restaurants.
When choosing an ANPR parking enforcement provider, there are several factors to consider. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make the right decision.
Step 1: Evaluate Your Needs
The first step in choosing an ANPR provider is to evaluate your parking needs. Consider the size of your retail park, the number of parking spaces, and the type of businesses that operate on your premises. This will help you determine the level of enforcement that you require.
Step 2: Research Providers
Once you have evaluated your needs, it’s time to research ANPR providers. Look for providers with a proven track record of success and experience in your industry. Check their reviews and testimonials from previous clients. Additionally, ensure that the provider has a clear understanding of the local regulations and compliance requirements.
Step 3: Evaluate Technology
When selecting an ANPR provider, it is important to evaluate their technology. Ensure that they use modern and reliable ANPR cameras that can accurately capture vehicle number plates. The provider should also have a robust and secure backend system to manage the data collected by the cameras.
Step 4: Consider Enforcement Transparency
Enforcement transparency is crucial in parking enforcement. Look for an ANPR provider that offers clear and visible signage to inform park users about the parking regulations. Additionally, the provider should be able to provide usage reports, allowing you to monitor the system’s effectiveness and make informed decisions.
Step 5: Evaluate Allow-List Management
Allow-list management is an essential component of ANPR parking enforcement. It allows you to grant special access to certain vehicles, such as tenants or service providers. Look for an ANPR provider that offers a flexible allow-list management system that can be easily updated and managed.
Step 6: Consider 24/7 Enforcement
As mentioned earlier, ANPR can operate 24/7, which is a significant advantage for retail parks. Look for an ANPR provider that offers 24/7 enforcement to ensure that parking violations are detected and addressed at all times.
Conclusion
ANPR is a powerful tool for parking enforcement in retail parks. Its transparency, flexibility, and effectiveness make it an attractive option for parking management. When selecting an ANPR provider, it is important to evaluate your needs, research providers, evaluate technology, consider enforcement transparency, evaluate allow-list management, and consider 24/7 enforcement. By following these steps, you can choose an ANPR provider that meets your parking enforcement needs and ensures fair and efficient use of parking spaces.
Final thoughts
Once you have chosen an ANPR provider, it is important to work closely with them to ensure that the system is implemented and used effectively. Here are some tips for working with your ANPR provider:
Ensure that the system is clearly signposted: Clear signage is crucial to inform park users about the parking regulations and the consequences of violating them. Work with your ANPR provider to ensure that the signage is clearly visible and informative.
Train your staff: Your staff should be trained on how to use the ANPR system and how to respond to parking violations. This will help to ensure that the system is used effectively and that park users are treated fairly.
Monitor the system’s effectiveness: Work with your ANPR provider to monitor the system’s effectiveness and make adjustments as needed. Usage reports can be used to identify trends and areas for improvement.
Respond to complaints: If park users have complaints about the ANPR system, it is important to respond to them promptly and appropriately. This will help to build trust and ensure that the system is used fairly.
In conclusion, ANPR parking enforcement can be a powerful tool for retail parks. By choosing the right ANPR provider and working closely with them, you can ensure that parking spaces are used fairly and efficiently. Remember to evaluate your needs, research providers, evaluate technology, consider enforcement transparency, evaluate allow-list management, and consider 24/7 enforcement when selecting an ANPR provider. By following these steps and working closely with your ANPR provider, you can implement an effective parking enforcement system that benefits your park users and your business.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can private companies use ANPR?
Yes, private companies can use ANPR to enforce parking regulations on their premises. ANPR is a flexible and effective technology that can be used in a variety of settings, including retail parks, shopping centres, and private car parks. - Are PCN on private land enforceable?
PCNs (Parking Charge Notices) issued on private land are enforceable, but only if the correct procedures are followed. Private companies must follow strict guidelines and regulations when issuing PCNs, and they must give motorists a chance to appeal the fine. If the appeal is unsuccessful, the motorist will be required to pay the fine. - Do you have to pay parking fines to private companies?
If you receive a PCN from a private company and it is deemed to be enforceable, you will be required to pay the fine. Failure to pay the fine can result in legal action, which could lead to additional fees and charges. - Are private ANPR cameras legal?
Yes, private ANPR cameras are legal as long as they are used in accordance with the relevant laws and regulations. Private companies must comply with data protection laws when using ANPR, and they must display clear signage informing park users that ANPR is in use. Additionally, the cameras must be used for legitimate purposes, such as enforcing parking regulations, and not for other purposes, such as surveillance or monitoring.
