EUKN - European Urban Knowledge Network - No parking: making low or zero parking work on higher density housing schemes

No parking: making low or zero parking work on higher density housing schemes - UK

Introduction

Examines the success of low or zero parking initiatives in high density housing schemes.

Description

Looks at car ownership and the national policy background in relation to parking provision. Considers the situation in London, exploring a number of case studies of high density housing schemes which have zero parking or limited provision. Assesses the attitudes of both potential purchasers and existing residents on limited parking or car free schemes.

Sets out some examples of good practice for the following:

location, design and development;
allocation and management of parking;
innovation.

Includes a number of recommendations.

Background information

This research was carried out against the backdrop of increasing housing density and a desire to reduce car usage while increasing public transport usage. Many new high density housing developments have emerged in recent times which have little or no parking facilities. The research aimed to assess the attitudes of current and prospective residents to low or zero parking schemes, and to identify the minimum pre-requisites for the success and sustainability of such schemes.

Methodology

A literature review, sixteen case studies and a survey of residents and potential house-buyers were undertaken.

Conclusions

The following key conclusions were reached:

current levels of dissatisfaction with parking provision are high;
greater consideration needs to be given to parking provision;
better management of existing parking schemes is required;
the car is often preferred because of poor perceptions of public transport and the desire for mobility;
public transport is an undesirable option for the disabled and those whose jobs require flexibility or mobility;
public transport is perceived as inadequate for shopping and the transport of children;
households with more children prefer car ownership;
public transport is perceived as a costly and slow alternative to the car.

Contact info

National Housing Federation, tel. +44 20 7067 1010

Publication date

01/03/2006

Researcher

Helen Cope

Making low or zero parking work on higher density housing schemes (PDF, Eng, 850 KB)

Document type

research

Themes

Urban Policy > Housing

Keywords

Housing policy