Parking attendants wearing colourful pink bibs will be guiding motorists in Worcester into parking bays.
These attendants, often the first point of contact for visitors to the town, will receive training in customer service, etiquette and conflict resolution. This is part of the Worcester Central Improvement District (WCID)’s Parking Attendant Project. The WCID collaborates with Worcester Tourism, the Breede Valley Municipality and local community organisations.
Parking attendants currently operate informally within the central business district. According to the WCID they provide a valuable service, but the lack of structure and consistency can sometimes detract from visitors’ experience. The WCID believes these individuals have the potential to become positive ambassadors for Worcester.
The project, which will be rolled out in phases, kicked off on Wednesday 19 February with an information session, attended by several attendants waiting to register.
The attendants will continue to depend on tips and won’t receive salaries. The colourful bibs and caps will be numbered to create a sense of professionalism and accountability.
The pink bib attendendants will only work in Trappes, Van Riebeeck, Tulbagh and Durban Streets.
All the attendants have signed a Code of Conduct. They will attend monthly meetings to stay connected and informed. Each of them contributes towards their bibs – these deposits are used to replace lost or damaged bibs. If an attendant is found to be under the influence, they will not be permitted to work.
The project hopes to not only equip and develop the attendants, but also enhance safety as they will work closely with the police. If motorists encounter any problems or inappropriate behaviour, they can call the number on the bib to report the issue.
