You will by now have noticed the recent changes to charges for parking on campus. Daily rates have increased for our members by around 20% – a stark contrast to the 2% pay increase offered by employers, and at a time when many staff find it more difficult than ever to park close to their workplace.
The changes were discussed with the campus unions before implementation – but as a matter of consultation, rather than negotiation, the University is under no obligation to change its plans. This highlights the importance of the ongoing work to ensure that where we do have negotiation rights, these are understood and respected by management.
When the first Car Parking Management Strategy, and first number plate operated barrier system, were introduced we were given assurances that parking charges were only levied to cover the costs associated with providing parking. This position has apparently changed, and parking charges are now used as a revenue stream by the University. As noted in previous communications, the maintenance fee for the new barrier system goes up by inflation as measured by the Retail Prices Index (RPI) each year. RPI is usually higher than the newer Consumer Prices Index (CPI) and has been higher than sector wage increases for many years.
While it is argued that the “actual” increases are small sums of money this trend, if continued, will see an increasing portion of our wages going back to the University until parking charges match wages. Clearly this is not a sustainable model and the percentages are relevant.