Strengthening the Safer Parking Initiative

The management of the Safer Parking/Park Mark initiatives has returned to direct police oversight with effect from 1st April 2026. This move is a natural next step in the maturity of these frameworks and marks an evolution of a strong, deeply valued, and mutually respectful relationship.

For many years, the British Parking Association (BPA) has operated these accreditations on behalf of the police. This work, delivered in close and effective partnership with Police CPI and police Designing Out Crime Officers (DOCOs) has been instrumental in raising standards, achieving a remarkable reduction in crime of up to 80% in accredited car parks, and building public confidence.

The partnership that has driven this success will continue and be strengthened.

Crucially, the Safer Parking standard will remain the definitive, and only police-backed, security benchmark, forming an integral part of planning and tender requirements for new car parks.