If you’ve ever pulled into a car park and noticed that some of the bays are marked at an angle rather than straight on, you might have wondered, “Why are these parking bays diagonal?” It’s a small detail that can actually make a big difference.
At C&R Ltd, we design and apply all kinds of car park layouts—from standard bays to accessible spaces, EV charging zones, and diagonal bay arrangements. In this blog, we’ll explain why diagonal bays are used and when they’re the best choice.
What Are Diagonal Parking Bays?
Diagonal (or angled) bays are typically painted at 45 or 60 degrees to the direction of traffic flow. Rather than pulling in straight, drivers enter at an angle, often with one-way traffic flow to match.
These are commonly used in:
- Retail parks
- Private business premises
- Schools and leisure centres
- Narrow or one-way car parks
Why Use Diagonal Bays Instead of Straight Ones?
There are several practical reasons:
✔ Easier Parking and Manoeuvring
Angled bays make it easier to pull in and out, especially for less confident drivers. They reduce the amount of steering needed and improve visibility when exiting.
✔ Better Traffic Flow
They’re usually combined with one-way systems, reducing head-on traffic and improving the flow of vehicles around the site.
✔ More Bays in Narrow Spaces
In some layouts, diagonal bays can fit more vehicles into a tighter space than standard parallel or perpendicular bays.
✔ Safer for Pedestrians
The layout often leads to fewer conflict points, as cars move in a single direction and enter/exit bays with more predictable movements.
Any Downsides?
Diagonal bays aren’t right for every site. For example:
- They can limit flexibility in two-way systems.
- They require good directional signage to avoid confusion.
- In some layouts, they may use more space per bay compared to perpendicular markings.
That’s why it’s important to get expert advice on the most efficient layout for your specific site.
How C&R Ltd Can Help
At C&R Ltd, we provide:
✔ Tailored bay layouts to maximise parking capacity
✔ Expert design support to create efficient one-way systems
✔ Durable, high-visibility thermoplastic and paint options
✔ Accessible, EV and parent & child bays built into your layout
✔ Quick turnaround and minimal disruption
Whether you’re building a new car park or refreshing an existing one, we’ll help you get the most out of your space—with markings that are safe, compliant, and built to last.
Get in Touch with C&R Ltd Today
Planning to install or refresh diagonal bays in your car park? Contact C&R Ltd today for expert advice and a free quote.
Let’s design a car park that’s efficient, easy to navigate, and tailored to your needs.