Overview

The Multi-storey Car Parks (Safety) Bill aims to improve safety in multi-storey car parks across England and Wales by increasing the minimum height of barriers and mandating 24-hour staffing.

Description

This bill introduces three key changes:

• Minimum Guarding Height in New Car Parks: Within three months of the bill passing, new multi-storey car parks must have barriers at least 2700mm high around roof edges and floor edges. This will be implemented through revisions to the Building Regulations 2010.
• Guard Height in Existing Car Parks: Existing multi-storey car parks will be required to meet the same 2700mm barrier height standard within one year of the bill passing. This will be enforced through regulations set by the Secretary of State.
• 24-Hour Staffing: The Secretary of State must introduce regulations requiring all multi-storey car parks to have on-site staff 24 hours a day. These regulations will also specify minimum staffing levels. These regulations, like those concerning barrier height, will require parliamentary approval before implementation. Failure to comply with these regulations may result in fines or civil sanctions.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify the exact cost to the government. However, implementing and enforcing the new regulations, particularly those related to staffing, will likely involve increased government spending, although no figures are provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Multi-storey Car Park Owners/Operators: Will face significant costs in upgrading existing car parks and implementing 24-hour staffing.
• Construction Industry: Will need to adapt to the new building regulations for new multi-storey car parks.
• The Public: Will benefit from increased safety in multi-storey car parks.
• Local Authorities: Will be involved in enforcing the new regulations.

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