Parking at Abbeygate Sixth Form College - FAQs

Am I guaranteed a parking space if my application is successful? 

We will limit the number of permissions granted to try and give greater confidence in your ability to park on site. However, the number of staff, students and visitors on site fluctuates each day. Whilst it is highly likely you will be able to park if you’re registered, we urge all students to have a back-up plan in the rare event you cannot find a space.  

Where else can I park? 

There are multiple car parks in and around Bury St Edmunds. In addition to the parking at West Suffolk College, the local council maintains a range of parking options in the town which can be found at Bury St Edmunds car parks (westsuffolk.gov.uk) . We urge all students to use a designated car park and avoid parking in residential areas.  

Is the college charging for parking? 

We are keen to maintain as much parking for students for as long as we can and we do not have a plan to charge for parking at this time.  

How do you decide who parks? 

Our criteria for a permit prioritises disabled students or those with a medical need, those in an exam year, and those living furthest from the college. This criteria ensures that those with the greatest needs will be accommodated.  

What if I ride a motorcycle? 

At present we have sufficient motorcycle parking at the front of college. Any student wishing to park a motorcycle there only needs to register their vehicle at reception.  

What if I arrive late and the car park is full? 

We urge all students to have a back-up plan for where they might park in the event they cannot park on site. We also recommend all students and staff  ensure sufficient time is allowed to navigate traffic and find a space to park.  

Can I park in nearby residential areas? 

We do not recommend parking in any residential areas. Local residents are not always appreciative of people parking on the street, and we urge all students to park responsibly, legally and with other people in mind. A carpark may offer greater protection and CCTV coverage than a residential area.  

I’ve just passed my test, can I park on site? 

Any student able to drive can apply for a parking permission. However, until permission is granted, a student cannot park on site. We urge all students to consider whether public transport is a viable alternative to get to college. Year 13 students are prioritised and Y12 students may apply from May half term.  

Why do you cap students to one inward and one outward access to the car park per day? 

We have seen a rise in accidents and in poor driving in the car park. To reduce the risk, we want to reduce the volume of movement in the car park. Therefore, our expectation of those parking is they drive here, park for the duration, and then leave. If this does not suit you, you are more than welcome to park in carparks across the town. 

Why do Year 13 get priority? 

Year 13 students have exams in the summer of their final year. Their need is therefore greater, to have that security and certainty of a parking space on site during exams.