TOWN CENTRE SURVIVAL - THE IMPORTANCE OF CAR PARKING - TOWN CENTRE STUDIES

Results of town centre health check surveys are discussed with reference to car parking in Wolverhampton, Bristol and Hemel Hempstead. A methodology has been developed to assess how well town centres are performing and priorities for action. Recent research is reviewed involving a number of similar towns to examine the relationship with car parking. Observations are made on the links between successful towns and car parking, and current issues. Results of a 1992 survey of retailing in historic towns, and a study of the effectiveness of town centre management are outlined. The findings of a survey of 15 shopping centres to establish which aspects were important to shoppers are outlined. Accessibility and town centres in London have also been studied. Evidence from the research shows that car parking is an important issue in the success of the town centre. For the covering abstract see IRRD 883069.