A Londonderry based company has become one of the UK’s largest car park operators after purchasing NCP out of administration.

The Martin Group now controls more than 100 sites previously run by NCP, which entered administration in March 2026 due to declining performance and an inability to pay debts. At that time some NCP locations were closed or passed to other operators.

PwC administrators said the majority of NCP’s 145 sites will transfer to the Martin Group along with staff who work there. Joint administrator Zelf Hussain said the sale protected hundreds of jobs and was the best outcome for creditors. He added that keeping NCP’s car parks open helps town and city centres continue functioning.

NCP’s financial troubles included long term leases with property owners and significant debt.

The Martin Group already holds a commercial property portfolio across the UK, including the Fishergate Shopping Centre in Preston and the Mercury Shopping Centre in Romford. The company has also expanded its hotel business, developing The Bedford Hotel in Belfast and buying The Waterfoot in Derry.

Gary Martin, director of Martin Property Group, said the company aims to build on NCP’s brand strength and heritage so it can have a lasting impact on communities. NCP chief executive Rob England called the purchase a fantastic day for NCP, saying difficult decisions were necessary to keep the business moving forward and that the priority is restoring full operations and building sustainable growth.