Whittington Hospital users fined under ‘draconian’ new parking rules

Published: 09 July, 2010
by PETER GRUNER

DISABLED motorists are receiving penalty tickets outside the Whittington Hospital because they are not aware parking hours have been changed.

“Draconian” wardens are handing out tickets at the main entrance to the hospital in Archway rather than pointing out the new changes. Up until now everyone with a blue disabled badge has been able to park outside the hospital on double yellow lines for an unlimited period.

Now new loading restrictions imposed from 7am-9am and 4pm-6pm Monday to Friday mean for many disabled people with an early or late appointment there is a difficulty in finding a convenient parking space.

Ellen Lanigan, 49, said: “On one day alone about 15 of us got tickets because we didn’t realise  the rules had changed. I had to pay a £60 fine. It is very unfair and I am furious. They did put up a notice. It was small and you could hardly read it. I’ve just had surgery on my back and I can’t walk far. I’ve got so many more appointments but I don’t know where I’m expected to park.” 

A council spokesman said: “Concerns were raised with the council’s parking team about buses travelling along Magdala Avenue being delayed and restricted by blue badge holders parking on double yellow lines – which they were perfectly entitled to do.

“The restrictions now in place only apply during rush hour. At all other times, blue badge holders can still park there for up to three hours. Of course it’s important that blue badge holders should be able to park closely to the Whittington Hospital entrance, but we also have to consider other road users on Magdala Avenue.”