CAR PARK AWARD
September 26 2005
City Council car parks in Gloucester have received recognition for taking a lead in the fight against crime.
The eight sites have been awarded the ‘Park Mark’ after bringing in measures to deter crime and anti-social behaviour.
The safer parking status is granted by the police after their local architectural liaison officer has carried out a risk assessment. The award indicates that the parking area has been vetted by the police and has measures in place which create a safer environment for users.
The police assessment criteria includes lighting and signage, CCTV, special parking areas for the disabled, motorbikes and bicycles, as well as good access and management practices.
Paul Smith, Managing Director of the City Council, who chairs the Countywide Multi-agency Community Safety Partnership, said: “This is great news for people in Gloucester. With the massive regeneration taking place more people are coming into the city and they will be pleased to hear that we are going the extra mile to make our car parks as safe as possible.”
The ‘Safer Parking Scheme’ was an initiative of the Association of Chief Police Officers aimed at reducing crime, and the fear of crime, in parking facilities across the country. It was introduced as an update to the ‘Secured Car Parks Scheme’ which has been in place for more than ten years.
Councillor Andrew Lewis, Cabinet Member for Care and Maintenance of the city said: “It is fantastic that the hard work in making these car parks safe has been recognised. The measures introduced will help deter crime and anti-social behaviour allowing people to use the car parks with confidence.”
The eight Gloucester car parks to receive the award are: both the town’s ‘Park and Ride’ sites, Hare Lane North and South, Hampden Way, Blackfriars, St Michaels Square and Station Road.
Mark Newman of NCP in Gloucester said: “We are delighted to run these car parks on behalf of the council and the people of Gloucester and are very pleased that our hard work has paid off.”