All of the council’s car parks have been found to be clean, safe and well maintained after their yearly assessment earlier this month.

Braintree District Council has 18 car parks, which have all retained Park Mark status, the Safer Parking Award from the British Parking Association (BPA).

Car parks and facilities with the Park Mark sign must achieve the requirements of a risk assessment conducted by the police and the British Parking Association.

Management, maintenance, surveillance, lighting, signage and cleanliness of the facility must be sufficient to pass the annual assessment.

Mike Bibby, BPA area manager for Essex, Kent and Sussex, said: “Over the past 12 months, Braintree’s facilities only experienced six recorded incidents, which is the result of good management and regular visits by the Civil Enforcement Officers.

“The dedication of everyone involved is obvious and carrying out their responsibilities diligently has resulted in these facilities being safe and non-threatening for users.”

Deputy cabinet member and chairman of the North Essex parking partnership, Councillor Robert Mitchell said: “I am delighted that so many of the district’s car parks have achieved the Park Mark award as it recognises the work undertaken to keep our car parks clean and safe.”