Clamping: NHS boss hits back

A NHS trust boss has hit back at criticism of its use of clampers at the Seaford Health Centre car park.

The centre, off Dane Road, came under fire in July when a car displaying a disability badge was clamped in the car park on a Saturday-when the centre was closed. The 61-year-old lady driver and her 75-year-old disabled husband were charged 79 to have it removed.

Seaford MP Norman Baker joined the condemnation saying it was outrageous that people should be clamped on the weekend when the centre was closed.

Clif (correct) Penny, head of corporate planning and communications for the Eastbourne and County Healthcare NHS Trust, said the centre had suffered a long running problem with illegal parking which caused difficulties for patients.

He added: Whilst it may seem a little severe, the decision to introduce an out-of-hours clamping policy was not taken lightly. The health centre s proximity to the town s railway station has, in the past, resulted in some drivers leaving their cars in the centre over the weekend and not returning until the middle of the following week, it is also not unknown for cars to be abandoned in the car park at the weekend.

The trust does not pay any fee for the clamping service not receive any money from the fines imposed. All the proceeds from the charges made are retained by the security firm.

The NHS trust plans to review its policy at the end of its current contract with its clampers in December.