A YORK shopping complex has won a major award for its crime-busting car park.

North Yorkshire's Chief Constable, Della Cannings, visited the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet, on the outskirts of York, to present a Secured Car Parks Award, making it the first major private car park operator in York to win such status.

The award recognises efforts to create a safe and secure environment for car park users through measures including CCTV, restricted access and escape routes, and help-point facilities. Ms Cannings said: "McArthurGlen have shown by their commitment to the scheme that they do take crime and community safety seriously. Our local crime and disorder strategy identifies vehicle crime as a major concern among residents."

Updated: 11:30 Saturday, January 25, 2003