Orwell Place car park in Dovercourt has been recognised with one of the UK’s highest honours for parking facilities after achieving the prestigious Park Mark Plus award.

Park Mark Plus, part of the British Parking Association’s Safer Parking Scheme, recognises car parks that excel in safety, accessibility, design, environmental standards and customer experience; only a small number of car parks nationwide have reached this standard.

Sites must already hold both the Park Mark and Park Access awards before being considered for this enhanced accreditation.

Opened by Tendring District Council (TDC) in 2023, Orwell Place includes electric vehicle (EV) charging bays, public toilets and space for community events. It was also among the first car parks in the country to receive the Park Access EV award for accessible electric vehicle charging.

Councillor Ivan Henderson, TDC’s Deputy Leader, said: “We are delighted that Orwell Place has achieved the Park Mark Plus award.

“It reflects our commitment to providing safe, accessible and well designed facilities that support a cleaner and greener Tendring.”

Naomi Parsons, British Parking Association Area Manager, added: “Orwell Place is an impressive facility that has met the extensive criteria required for Park Mark Plus. It sets a high standard for car parks nationally.”

The Park Mark Plus accreditation helps drivers easily identify car parks offering exceptional safety, accessibility and customer experience.

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