Marks & Spencer multi-storey car park at Cheshire Oaks continues to set the standard for safer, greener parking

The Marks & Spencer multi-storey car park (MSCP) at Cheshire Oaks, Ellesmere Port, stands as a prime example of how thoughtful car park design can combine environmental sustainability with high standards of safety and customer experience.

Opened in 2012 as an integral part of Marks & Spencer’s flagship store development, the car park formed part of what M&S launched as its “biggest and greenest” sustainable flagship store. From the outset, the facility incorporated a range of environmental innovations, earning a dedicated ‘green-minded’ transport award in 2013.

A defining feature of the MSCP is its 300m² vertical green living wall, which covers an entire elevation of the structure. Designed to act as a bio-filter, the living wall helps absorb vehicle emissions, reduce carbon and enhance local biodiversity, while providing a striking natural feature within the retail environment.

Sustainability has also been considered throughout the wider design of the site. The car park’s surface materials allow rainfall to filter through and return safely to the local environment, helping to manage surface water. High landscaped banks around the perimeter provide natural insulation for the main store building and contributed to the site achieving the National Wildlife Trust’s Biodiversity Benchmark.

Supporting the transition towards lower-carbon transport, the car park has also installed modern Pod Point electric vehicle charging stations, giving customers convenient access to EV charging while visiting the store.

The MSCP’s commitment to high standards has been recognised through a number of industry accolades. It achieved Park Mark accreditation in 2013 and, in the same year, won the ‘Best New Car Park’ award at the British Parking Awards.

Importantly, the parking facility’s commitment to safety has continued long after its opening. It continues to achieve the Safer Parking standard year after year, demonstrating an ongoing dedication to providing customers with a secure and welcoming parking environment.

Safer Parking accreditation is awarded to car parks that have implemented the necessary measures to prevent crime and reduce the fear of crime. You can contact the team today to discuss accreditation for your car park.