Full list of NCP car parks at risk in Lancashire as major operator falls into administration
Car park operator National Car Parks (NCP) has gone into administration, placing more than 650 jobs at risk.
The firm, which has struggled to fill spaces since the Covid-19 pandemic, has appointed PwC as administrators - though its sites currently remain open to drivers.
NCP has been around for 95 years and operates around 340 car parks across the UK, including sites in city centres, near train stations, hospitals and airports. The operator has numerous car parks in Lancashire, including in Preston, Blackpool, Lancaster and at Royal Blackburn Teaching Hospital.
Yesterday’s (March 16) move means 682 jobs are potentially at risk, though employees have been told sites are operating as normal while administrators consider the next steps, with some or all of NCP potential being put up for sale.
Administrators said they will be assessing the viability of each location operated by the firm, which was founded in 1931 and is owned by Japanese company Park24, and some sites may need to be closed as a result.
Zelf Hussain, joint administrator and partner for PwC, said: “NCP has faced a challenging trading environment over several years, with changing consumer behaviours impacting volumes, and a high fixed cost-base leading to trading losses.
“Our priority on appointment is to ensure continuity of service while we undertake a detailed review of the business. All sites are open, staff remain in post, and trading continues as normal.
“We will be engaging with landlords, employees and other stakeholders as we explore all options, including the potential sale of all or part of the business, to secure the best possible outcome for creditors.”