Car

Parking at Abbeygate Sixth Form College

As part of our ongoing commitment to sustainability, safety, and fairness, Abbeygate Sixth Form College will be introducing car parking charges for eligible Year 13 students from September 2025.

This change reflects the increasing demand for on-site parking and our responsibility to manage it in a way that supports students with the greatest need, while encouraging more environmentally friendly travel options.

 

Why the change?

We are introducing this new system to:

  • Promote sustainable travel such as walking, cycling, car sharing, and public transport.

  • Prioritise students with the longest and most challenging journeys to college.
  • Reduce congestion and ensure the car park remains a safe and accessible space for all users.
  • Reinvest in our facilities, with parking revenue used to maintain and improve the car park and wider college environment.
     

Who can park?

  • Only Year 13 students are eligible to apply for a parking permit. As has always been the case, Year 12 students will not be permitted to use the Abbeygate car park, except in cases where a mobility need applies.  

  • Permits will be issued at regular periods throughout the year and are based on a cost of £2 per day, payable in advance.

  • Eligibility is based on distance from the college:
    • Students living 10 miles or more away will be automatically eligible.
    • Students living between 4 and 10 miles may be eligible, depending on availability.
    • Students living within 4 miles will not be eligible, unless they have a recognised mobility need.
  • Blue Badge holders and students with temporary or long-term mobility issues will be supported and can park for free.
  • Those travelling to college via mopeds or motorcycles will not have to pay to park.
     

How to apply

If you meet the eligibility criteria and live more than 10 miles from college, you must contact Reception to apply for your permit. 

You can reach the reception team on: 

01284 636501 
reception@abbeygatesfc.ac.uk 

If spaces remain, students living between 4 and 10 miles will be contacted and invited to apply. Late applications will only be considered if there are still spaces available. 

 

Important reminders 

  • Students who pass their test earlier and live closer to college may receive a permit in the first term, but may not in later terms as demand increases.
  • All students should have a backup parking plan in case a permit is not granted - especially during the summer exam period.
  • Nearby council-run car parks are available and can be found on the Suffolk County Council website.
  • Students must have already passed their test and be in possession of a full driving licence at the time of applying.  
  • Students must agree to the parking conditions listed below.

 

Parking conditions 

By entering the car park, you agree to the following: 

  • Drive no faster than 5 mph and follow all signage and markings. 
  • Park only in designated bays - do not block others or park on verges, footpaths, or yellow lines.
  • No tailgating through the ANPR barrier. 
  • Keep noise to a minimum - no loud music or inappropriate use of horns. 
  • No smoking or vaping on campus, except in designated areas.
  • EV bays are for electric vehicles only, and only while charging.
  • Report any incidents or spillages to Reception immediately.  
  • If the car park is full, you must park off-site.
  • Blue Badge holders may use accessible bays.
  • Mopeds and motorbikes must use designated bays outside the main car park. 
  • Vehicles must be insured, taxed, and have a valid MOT.
  • The college accepts no responsibility for damage or loss.

If you have any questions, please contactreception@abbeygatesfc.ac.uk.