Partnership work eases parking problems

The scheme, devised by Southend-on-Sea Borough Council in partnership with the hospital, was provisionally approved by residents following a consultation exercise last year.

It was drawn up to combat problems caused by drivers who regularly parked on grass verges and across driveways in the streets surrounding the hospital.

It is due to go back to local residents for formal consultation in the next few weeks and, if approved, will come into force on April 1, 2011.

The scheme will complement the Travel Plan works undertaken by Southend University Hospital to provide 600 additional car parking spaces, 200 bicycle stands and initiatives to encourage staff to use a range of different modes of travel to ensure the public can park on the hospital site.

The proposed PMS will be in operation from 9am to 4pm on Mondays to Fridays and feature a mixture of resident-only, permit only, pay-and-display and 30-minute 'no return' bays.

Permits will cost local residents £10-a-year with a £5 administration fee. Anyone whose permanent address is in the PMS area and who owns a car, small van or motorbike can apply.

Residents will also be entitled to apply for a visitor permit which friends and family will need to display in their vehicles if they visit during PMS hours.

Local businesses will be able to purchase permits allowing them access to special 'permit only' parking bays and some designated short-stay parking is being provided near to local shops.

Mark Flewitt, Executive Councillor for Planning & Transport, said: "This parking management scheme will greatly benefit residents living near the hospital.

"Great pressure has been put on the availability of parking for local people due to hospital staff and visitors, commuters and visitors to the town who leave their cars in the area all day.

"There have also been problems with inconsiderate motorists parking on grass verges and across people's driveways.

"The Council cannot create more space to park cars in the area but the proposed parking management scheme will give residents, businesses and their visitors priority.

"This in turn will lead to safer roads through the removal of inconsiderate and dangerous parking and a cleaner, healthier environment through the restricted use of vehicles in the area."

Jan China, associate director of estate development at Southend University Hospital , added her support to the scheme.

She said: "We work hard to build up a good relationship with our neighbours around the hospital site and have been aware of difficulties caused by inconsiderate parking.

"We are therefore pleased that this scheme has met with their initial approval and hope that it will alleviate problems in the future."