IN RESPONSE to increasing demand, Tunbridge Wells Hospital at Pembury is to allocate more parking spaces to patients and visitors, although apparently at the expense of staff parking.
In last week’s Times poll held on Facebook and Instagram, 86.82 per cent of respondents agreed with the statement: ‘I often struggle to find a space’ with reference to hospital parking.
Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust (MTW), which manages the hospital, has also been polling hospital users.
It said last week: “In response to feedback, this week we are creating more patient and visitor parking spaces (including more disabled parking and drop-off bays) at Tunbridge Wells Hospital, close to A&E.”
Car parking plans dated 2021 and 2022 show a total of just over 1,400 marked spaces on the site. This includes Disabled Car Park C in front of the building, but excludes the drop-off area.
The Times understands from a staff member that the extra patient and visitor spaces are to come from staff allocation.
According to MTW’s own information, parking for the public is free for up to 30 minutes, rising to £2 for up to two hours. There is an additional £2 for each two-hour period, with fees capped at £10 for an 8 to 24-hour period. Concessionary rates are available for Oncology and Renal patients while they are receiving treatment.
Parking allowances are also available in cases of outpatient cancellations or delays.
MTW has been approached for comment.
