Securing Public Spaces: How Automatic Barriers Solved Unauthorised Parking at Ware Library

For estate managers and facilities directors, protecting private land from unauthorised parking is a constant challenge. When a car park is situated near a busy town centre, it often becomes an easy target for shoppers and commuters, leaving no space for staff or legitimate visitors.

Our recent project at Ware Library in Hertfordshire is a textbook example of how a professionally installed automatic barrier system can reclaim a private car park and streamline access control.

The "Town Centre" Parking Problem

Ware Library boasts a dedicated rear car park intended for staff and contractors. However, due to its convenient location near Ware’s town centre and local shops, the site was plagued by "park and walk" motorists.

Unauthorised vehicles were occupying spaces for hours at a time, causing frustration for library staff and preventing contractors from accessing the site. The library needed a solution that was:

1. Deterrent: Visually and physically stopping unauthorised entry.

2. User-Friendly: Simple enough for staff to use daily without delay.

3. Versatile: Capable of granting temporary access to contractors or guests.

   
   

The Solution: The FAAC B614 Automatic Barrier

After assessing the site’s requirements, we recommended and installed the FAAC B614 Automatic Barrier.

The FAAC B614 is a market leader for a reason. It is designed for continuous use, making it ideal for busy environments. Its robust build ensures longevity, while its high-speed operation prevents traffic build-up at the entrance.

Smart Access Control for Staff and Visitors

A barrier is only as good as its access control system. For Ware Library, we implemented a dual-entry solution to cover all bases:

• For Staff & Regular Users: We provided handheld remote controls. This allows staff to drive up to the barrier and trigger it from their vehicle. The barrier opens smoothly and closes automatically once the vehicle has cleared the safety sensors.

• For Contractors & Visitors: We installed a digital keypad. The library can issue a unique four-digit code to temporary visitors or delivery drivers, allowing them to enter the site securely without needing a physical remote.

  
  

The Results: Immediate Impact

Completed in January 2025, the installation had an immediate effect on the library’s operations.

"The system is very simple to use. The installation solved the issue immediately. The system is reliable, easy to use, and provides secure access control for the car park."

By installing the FAAC B614, Ware Library has successfully:

• Eliminated unauthorised town centre parking.

• Guaranteed parking availability for their own team.

• Enhanced the professional appearance and security of the site.

Expert Advice for Estate Managers

If you are managing a property facing similar parking headaches, an automatic barrier is often the most cost-effective long-term solution. When choosing a system, consider:

• Frequency of use: Ensure the motor is rated for "intensive" use.

• Safety features: Always ensure your installer includes safety loops or photocells to prevent the barrier from closing on a vehicle.

• Access flexibility: Think about who needs entry. Do you need GSM (phone-based) entry, keypads, or ANPR (number plate recognition)?

  
  

Contact Us Today

Are you looking to secure your commercial or public-sector car park? Our team specialises in high-quality barrier installations across Hertfordshire and the surrounding areas.

Click here to request a free site survey or call us to discuss your security requirements.