A CITY centre car park has kept its reputation for being thief-proof over the past year.

Not a single case of vehicle theft has been reported at St Mary's Car Park, in Sunderland, since it opened in November 1993.

The car park, which has retained its Secured Car Park award, has hydraulic kerbs and rising barriers that control cars going in and out, and pedestrian access is limited to a footbridge over St Mary's Way.

A closed-circuit television system, extensive lighting and car park officers add to security measures.

Sunderland City Council's environment director, William Ault, said: "This is a remarkable achievement bearing in mind that the car park has been open for more than seven years.

"St Mary's is an excellent example of how to design out car crime from car parks.

"Its design and management is regarded as a blueprint for other car park operators.

"St Mary's car park is a tremendous facility for the city centre and shoppers."

Mr Ault said motorists could park in the knowledge that their vehicle would be left in a safe, secure environment.

"This award acknowledges the dedication of staff to eradicating car crime from city centre car parks, and its retention is proof of their commitment to providing the best service,'' he said.