Mid Sussex District Council awarded for accessible car parks 

Car parks are awarded this accreditation after an assessment has demonstrated it meets a strict criteria for the provision of spaces, accessibility and clear enforcement of disabled bays.

Seventeen of the Mid Sussex District Council car parks also retained their Park Mark Awards which is awarded to parking facilities that pass a rigorous risk assessment conducted by the police and the British Parking Association. 

Cllr Gary Marsh, Portfolio Holder for Service Delivery said:  “We are delighted that many of our car parks have achieved the Disabled Parking Accreditation.

“We are committed to ensuring a high standard of service provision to all residents and visitors to our communities. Receiving recognition in the form of these awards is very positive and we will be working over the next year to ensure more of our car parks can achieve this recognition.”

Dave Metcalf, British Parking Association Area Manager said: “I am delighted that Mid Sussex continues to meet the Safer Parking Scheme’s criteria across a wide variety of parking facilities and locations.

“The Disabled Parking Accreditation is an excellent addition as the scheme looks specifically at provision for disabled motorists whose mobility needs can be much more challenging. The Disabled Parking Accreditation gives assurance to motorists who require additional planning to ensure their needs are catered for.”

There are now around 700 car park in the UK which hold the DPA, with more joining the scheme every week. 

To qualify, car parks must have accessible bays that meet British standards, which are at least 2.4 meters by 4.8 meters with a 1.2 meter safety or transition zone marked with cross patterned stripes along one side of the bay.

Signage must give clear information and instructions for the use of a building and there should be level access between pedestrian entrances/exits and parking bays.  Lifts or ramps must be provided where levels are not even.  Lighting, payment machines and alternative payment methods also form part of the criteria as well as concessions where appropriate to allow disabled people additional time.

Marta Bartosiewicz, Operations Manager of Disabled Motoring UK said” It is so vital that local authorities see the importance and value of providing accessible parking for disabled motorists therefore we are delighted to learn that Mid Sussex District Council, which achieved 15 accreditations, has invested in this important scheme. It will no doubt benefit generations to come.”