The Means' Giles Semper led a workshop at the recent Optimum 2 closing conference in the Netherlands. The event brought together around 200 'mobility management' practicioners from around Europe. It took place at the National Congress Centre in Zaandam, just outside Amsterday.

Giles' workshop took place on the first morning of the conference and was entitled 'Park Management & Business Improvement Districts'. 'Park Management' is the name applied to organisations bringing together owners and/or occupiers of units on business parks in the Netherlands. These organisations have proved effective in organising mobility management measures, but suffer from relying on voluntary contributions.

 

Giles' presentation suggested that BIDs were unproven as a vehicle for mobility management, but might solve the problem of 'free riders' associated with a voluntary scheme.

In the event the workshop prompted serious and interesting discussion with BIDs seen on the one hand as a possible alternative to local government in key commercial areas, but also as a threat to the character and distinctiveness of place on the other.