Building a better future for secure parking

APCOA PARKING (UK) has been awarded a two-year safer parking award at its managed multi-storey car park (MSCP) on Avenue Road in Bournemouth.

The 895-space barrier controlled car park, owned by Bournemouth Borough Council received the desired Park Mark award after Dorset Police recorded zero vehicle crime at the MSCP over past 12 months.

In his summary report, John Green – Bournemouth-based Crime Prevention Officer and Park Mark assessor – found that Avenue Road MSCP is a good example of a well-managed facility designed and built to incorporate security to a high standard.

The assessor also concluded that on-site APCOA staff are engaged in daily management briefings, which are underpinned by visits from APCOA’s regional manager at least once a month for added business continuity.

APCOA operates a shift-work rata at Avenue Road, which means that the car park is manned by uniformed officers between 07:00 and 22:00. Attendants regularly patrol the facility, which is supported by a 31-camera CCTV system, which covers all entrance and egress points.

Pay-on-foot machines and customer service intercoms are also available on each floor and are linked to the APCOA’s on-site office.

APCOA attendants are all trained in-house in the areas of customer service, conflict management, equipment operations, and health and safety.

Chas Cannon, Park Mark area manager said: “Avenue Road Multi Story Car Park has had the Park Mark award since the introduction of the scheme in 2004. It is a good example of a well managed facility that meets all the criteria.

“Being located in the centre of Bournemouth means that visitors to the town can park in a safe and secure car park whilst the visit the town centre.”