When you have a parcel of land that is derelict and not in use but in a prime location, consider investing some money and turning it into a car park. It can be an excellent money earner for you that shows you an excellent return on your investment, depending on the location of the land. You must consider various factors when contemplating turning your land into a car park and ensure it is a suitable option. Below are some factors to consider when you want to earn money off your wasteland that can help you determine whether it is viable.
Check & Apply For Planning Permission
You will most likely require planning permission to convert your land into a car park, especially if this changes the land’s current use. You will need to check the property’s current zoning and whether you need to apply for it to be redesignated, which can take some time. If you are lucky, all you will need to do is apply for planning permission to build a car park, and you will hopefully have it within a couple of months.
Preparing The Land
You will need to lay a surface on your car park for the vehicles to park on, and you will need to prepare the land before you can do this. You may need to remove demolition rubble and ensure a flat, level surface before you begin constructing your car park. You may need to dig out the land and fill it with sand and stones to ensure your footings will be strong enough to take the weight of the vehicles.
Laying Down The Surface
After preparing the land, you must start laying the surface for your car park and ensure your foundations are strong enough to take the weight. The next step of the process is to put down the car park’s surface, and there are various materials you can use. You will want to invest in quality material that is durable and hard-wearing, such as Asphalt, which is also low maintenance. Install the curbs you need, and you are well on your way to completing your car park, but there is still some work left to do.
Getting Your Car Park Ready
To maximise the number of available spaces for car parking, line marking will be needed, and you will need to have lines painted throughout the car park with enough space for vehicles to park safely. You will also need to have signs throughout the car park with the charges clearly displayed, and you will also need a barrier to block the entrance and exit. You can put a small cabin in the car park and have someone working there to oversee it and collect the money from the drivers, or you can look to automate it and have machines and utilise ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) cameras.
Once the above is complete, you are ready to open your barriers and let in the vehicles that want to park and earn a steady income without having to do too much. Your derelict land can start making money, and you will soon earn back the expense of preparing it.