A SHOPPING centre car park has become the first in Middlesbrough to pick up an award for safety and security.
The Secure Car Park Award was given to the Hill Street Centre after its car park was refurbished and extra signs, lighting and pedestrian access were added.
The town's mayor, Ray Mallon, was on hand this week to see the award presented to acting centre manager Peter Drabble.
"I would obviously like to see Middlesbrough crime free, but I know that isn't very probable," said Mr Mallon. "So the best we can do is ensure that crime is at reasonable levels and positive initiatives like this are very welcome."
Since the measures were introduced at the centre only two crimes have been reported, compared with 17 offences in the previous six months.
Jo Matthews, crime prevention design advisor for Cleveland Police, said: "I hope that other car park providers will take the Hill Street Centre's lead and invest in security measures to promote the area as a safe place to park and shop.
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