News & Features

An Exciting New Chapter: Introducing Safer Parking Accessible

Posted in News on Tuesday, March 31st, 2026

From today 1st April our national Park Access accreditation will be called Safer Parking Accessible following a change of management to Police CPI to strengthen the initiative’s future and unify its identity.

The Evolution of the Standard

The operation and administration of Park Mark (which Park Access sits within) will be moved from BPA to Police Crime Prevention Initiatives (Police CPI), whilst remaining jointly owned with DMUK. This move aligns all major UK police-backed prevention initiatives under its direct operational control.

As part of this transition, the initiative is rebranding from Park Mark to Safer Parking. This new identity clearly communicates our primary mission: providing demonstrably safer spaces for all motorists.

The refreshed suite of awards will be:

• Safer Parking (formerly Park Mark)
• Safer Parking Plus (formerly Park Mark Plus)
• Safer Parking Freight (formerly Park Mark Freight)
• Safer Parking Meet and Greet (formerly Approved Meet and Greet Operator)

Additionally, following discussions between Police CPI and Disabled Motoring UK, the accessibility standards are also evolving:

• Safer Parking Accessible (formerly Park Access)
• Safer Parking Accessible EV (formerly Park Access EV)

 

A Legacy of Partnership

This collaboration with BPA has achieved a remarkable reduction in crime of up to 80% in accredited facilities. Police CPI and DMUK remain fully committed to the scheme’s success post-transition, continuing its vital role in promoting, advocating for, and raising awareness of these accreditations across the sector. Graham Footer, CEO of Disabled Motoring UK, said: “This transition represents a significant milestone for the Park Access Accreditation. Partnering with Police CPI provides a strong foundation for future development while preserving the values, standards, and impact that have underpinned the scheme since its inception. This partnership with Police CPI ensures the scheme continues to raise accessibility standards in car parks for disabled motorists and build confidence in safer parking facilities.”

What This Means for You

The Safer Parking standard will remain the unequivocal benchmark for security in the UK, deeply integrated into planning and tender processes. For our valued award holders, the level of service remains a top priority:

If you would like to find an accredited car park near you visit our website

Audits and service: The car parks will continue to be audited by your dedicated Safer Parking Area Manager and Police Designing Out Crime Officers.
Transition

Whilst the new brand assets will start to be used from 1 April 2026, there will be a transition period during which existing Park Mark signage remains valid. Our shared goal remains clear: ensuring UK-wide parking facilities maintain the highest standards in safety, cleanliness, and accessibility.

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