Parkex 2021: Click to connect

A virtual Parkex will be discussing ideas such as digital services and connectivity

Pandemic restrictions mean that Parkex will be running digitally for 2021. Over a three-day period, traffic and parking professionals will have an opportunity to attend seminars and check out the latest systems on virtual stands.

Transport minister Baroness Vere will open Parkex and the parallel Traffex trade show with a keynote address on 15 June. In her ministerial role, Baroness Vere has responsibility for roads, including Highways England, motoring agencies, buses and taxis, light rail and devolution. Baroness Vere is expected to focus on the “once in a generation” opportunity for new enhanced partnerships at local levels as well as the challenges facing the parking sector as the government looks towards more sustainable solutions.

Immediately following the transport minister’s address, Nick Harris, acting chief executive of Highways England, will deliver what is believed to be his first public broadcast since taking on the role in January.

Over the following three days, around 50 speakers and panellists will be speaking in the Parkex strand, which has been programmed by the British Parking Association (BPA).

Andrew Pester, chief executive of the BPA, said: “Parkex is Europe’s largest parking event, where the sector comes together to network, learn and focus on trends and disruptors. Our Parkex Hub allows you to see and hear from many leading experts in their field, as well as providing opportunities to discuss the challenges of planning a successful and sustainable future.”

Running in tandem, the speaker programmes will be complemented by virtual exhibition booths featuring suppliers from across the parking sector.
On 17 June, the event will close with a social event at 3.30pm. The Watering Hole Quiz will be hosted by quizmaster Steve Clark, perhaps better known as the BPA’s director of operations and business.

Talking points

The Parkex conference addresses the mobility, technology and environmental agendas

Day One: Tuesday 15 June
The changing face of parking
An international panel will explore the significance of parking management in the wider transport and mobility sphere. It will also consider why parking often struggles to get the recognition it deserves, asking what parking can do to change its outward looking ‘face’ in order to improve public perception.

Day Two: Wednesday 16 June
Mobility on the move
The majority of local authorities have declared climate emergencies. Transport is seen as key to addressing this challenge. But where does parking fit in? The session will look at the role of electric vehicles, delivery services, cycling and walking as we navigate a way out of the pandemic to a greener, healthier future.

Day Three: Thursday 17 June
Connected travel: smart journeys, clever destinations
Digital technology promises a connected and environmentally friendly future. But how will this be funded and integrated? An expert panel will consider the factors that are changing parking management and parking’s role in towns, cities and the communities of the future.

Parkex 2021
To register as a delegate for Parkex 2021 visit: www.parkex.co.uk