Car parks are essential to modern life and road usage, and yet, it’s unlikely that we consider the design of these spaces when we come to use them. But a good looking, functional car park that is easy to use is a vital first impression for businesses and other public spaces. After all, it is quite literally the first thing people will see and experience when they arrive at their location.
While there are many different ways to make a car park experience as seamless as possible – including automatic barrier with number plate reading technology – it is line markings that make up the most important aspects of a car park. A simple, yet highly effective service that ensures a premises give off the right first impression. But what is it about line markings that makes the biggest difference to a car park?
Safe & Comfortable Parking
There is nothing quite as infuriating as arriving in a poorly maintained car park with weeds growing out from under the tarmac and more importantly, faded parking bays. Having clearly marked, well maintained bays is crucial to an easy and safe experience. Bays should also be wide enough for all kinds of vehicles. No one enjoys the dreaded 10-point parking in order to squeeze into a parking bay three times too small for your car, or try to avoid scratching a neighbouring vehicle. It may be the simplest function of line parking in a car park, but it is still one of the most important.
Flow of Traffic
Car parks, especially busy car parks, rely on seamless movement. This not only makes them easier to use and allows users to exit the space quickly, it also prevents the potential problems that may arise if someone happens to be driving the wrong way in a one-way system. Clearly marked arrows and entrance and exit signs are the key to ensuring a safe flow of traffic and discouraging drivers from rushing in to secure a parking spot, potentially causing an accident in the process.
Walkways
Speaking of safety, line markings and surface treatments are essential to providing pedestrians areas where they can walk around the area. Car parks should have clearly marked walkways, preferably in a different colour to the rest of the car park, as well as pedestrian crossings to access various areas of the car park. Even though these are not a requirement, they give peace of mind to both pedestrians and drivers alike and can even add a pop of colour to create a nicer, more inviting appearance.
Allocated Parking Bays
Accessibility is something that we should all be aware of when creating a service, especially in a public place. And while regulations under the Equality Act may differ depending on the type of car park and where it is situated, ensuring that these parking bays are clearly marked and visible to those who need to use them. Just like with pedestrian walkways, these parking bays may even be painted in a different colour to add that extra level of visibility.
It is not just accessible bays that can be designed in this way. Bays for mother and child parking or even permit holders and employees may be designed in a unique way so that those who need them may find them as quickly as possible and those who do not are less likely to park there accidently.
Aesthetically Pleasing Appearance
As well as serving a functional purpose, car parks are there to make a good first impression. Even if clients, customers or visitors don’t realise it at the time, a car park has much to say about a business or place of interest. The amount of time and care put into making a car park as user friendly, safe, and aesthetically pleasing as possible shows guest that your business is likely to have that same attention to detail.
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Whether it’s a Pay & Display car park near your local theatre or the car park leading up to a five star hotel, everyone hopes to have a good and safe experience with a minimal wait, as well as have access to the right bays. Line markings may not be the height of technology, but they are essential in creating a good first impression, keeping the appearance of your business as clean as possible, and proving a vital service for road users everywhere.
