Parking availability and characteristics of the parking environment can strongly influence a driver’s choice of destination. Drivers usually assume that they will be able to park their vehicles within a reasonable distance of their final destination, accepting that in congested areas this will usually involve some time searching for a space.

On-street kerbside parking is usually regarded as the most convenient place to park, especially for disabled people, parents with young children or people carrying heavy loads therefore finding it difficult to walk long distances. Publicly available off-street spaces are often provided by local authorities or private operators, and lastly there are private spaces owned by individuals such as residential garages or private forecourts.

The growth of vehicular traffic, with the problems of noise, pollution, accidents and congestion has led to a significant appraisal of transport policy. It is now accepted we cannot cater for unlimited growth of traffic in many urban areas. Management of parking has therefore become an important means of influencing overall levels of traffic demand, as well as controlling the type of journeys possible. Parking controls are also an important means of reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring the safe passage of emergency vehicles within residential areas.

Under a civil parking regime, such as now exists within the Borough of Eastleigh, the Council undertakes enforcement of parking restrictions. All fines are retained by the Borough Council to finance the enforcement office. Any monies left over from this function must be utilised, in accordance with government legislation, on improving transport within Eastleigh Borough. This can vary from subsidised transport fares to the installation of traffic calming measures.