A president's parking plan

The British Parking Association's new president Richard Walker sets out the vision for his term in office

Had the BPA president’s Reception taken place on its original and intended date, my speech would have referenced the certainty of an upcoming general election. However, as we all now know, 4 July was selected as polling day by the then prime minister Rishi Sunak.

The results of opinion polls were confirmed by the exit polls, and the election results were confirmed as fact. Some upsets were witnessed, and the election of the erstwhile opposition into power, under Sir Keir Starmer – our new prime minister – means a different party is now in control.

The change in administration means a change in direction as manifesto pledges start to be put into policy. With a very large majority, I suspect it will not be too long before items that are referenced in the King’s Speech are put into legislation.

From a local authority perspective, we have been watching with interest. While there is little detail yet, the high-level information available so far seems to indicate a desire for greater devolution of powers, and a focus on developing transport polices. Notably, the initiatives mentioned by transport secretary Louise Haigh MP – including nationalisation of the railway operation, more franchised bus services and delivering greener transport – does seem to indicate a transportation policy shift, although the finer detail, including how any plans relate to parking, is still needed.

We have also recently been involved in our own association’s elections. Each June, the familiar cycle of polling begins again and, this year, we welcome new incumbents to the Council of Representatives. We also had elections to the board of directors. We recognise and thank those who have served on our boards and council for their hard work alongside busy jobs and lives. Their valued contribution has helped keep our association thriving and growing.

Richard Walker is president of the British Parking Association