Calls to improve facilities for lorry drivers supported by BPA
The findings from a report by Transport Focus highlighting the need to improve facilities for lorry drivers come as no surprise to the British Parking Association (BPA). For too long these facilities have been below standard, not offering safe places for drivers to rest, eat and park their vehicles.
The BPA calls for operators of these facilities to adopt higher standards by obtaining its Park Mark Freight accreditation which is at the forefront of transforming freight parking locations across the country. As part of the Police Crime Prevention Initiative’s (PCPI) well-regarded Park Mark® Safer Parking Scheme, Park Mark Freight demonstrates that a lorry parking facility is secure and safe for freight drivers, enhancing their wellbeing and operational efficiency.
Park Mark Freight:
- Develops and improves secure parking locations for freight vehicles, minimising the risk of theft and damage.
- Fosters a safer and more supportive working environment conducive to the needs of freight drivers.
- Improves amenities and support services available at freight parking sites to enhance drivers' rest periods and overall experiences.
Sara Fisher, BPA Head of Operations and Business Development said “The BPA is committed to improving industry standards and Park Mark Freight should be the default accreditation for all lorry facilities and truck stops across the UK. Park Mark Freight is not just a vision but a comprehensive plan to deliver pivotal changes that will benefit both the industry and its workforce. Lorry drivers across the UK deserve the best and we hope that today’s report will encourage all facilities to improve and meet our high standards.”
More about Park Mark Freight and to get involved visit www.britishparking.co.uk/park-mark-freight
The Transport Focus report can be found here: https://tinyurl.com/tzty9p86
Notes to editors
For more information, please contact the BPA press office – email: media@britishparking.co.uk
- 1) The BPA is a not-for-profit membership association representing the UK’s parking and mobility sector. We provide a leading membership community to support parking and traffic management professionals to deliver the highest quality services that benefits society and the environment.
- 2) We represent over eight hundred corporate members including local government, commercial providers, parking system operators, consultants, and academics. In addition, we have a separate membership structure for over 650 individuals and a range of benefits to support their professional development. Our Vision is for a diverse and inclusive membership community that supports a parking and travel experience that exceeds expectations.
- 3) The Safer Parking Scheme is a national standard for UK car parks that have low crime and measures in place to ensure the safety of people and vehicles. A Park Mark is awarded to each car park that achieves the challenging standards. The distinctive Park Mark signage helps drivers find car parks where they can confidently leave their vehicles, knowing the environment is safer.
- 4) The BPA manages the Safer Parking Scheme on behalf of Police Crime Prevention Initiatives Ltd (Police-CPI) and with support from the Home Office and the Scottish Government. Nine Area Managers are employed by the BPA to actively promote and manage the scheme throughout the UK.