Conquest parking costs may treble

Although nothing has been agreed, if the new charge is introduced at the Conquest and District General Hospital (DGH) in Eastbourne, East Sussex Hospitals NHS Trust could raise an extra 188,000 a year.

Andrew Stenton, hospital director who is responsible for estates and facilities, said the review is taking place because parking charges have not been raised at the Conquest or DGH since 2000.

He said: "Consequently our current charges are now out of step with charges locally in council operated or private car parks.

"Although there is parking for over 250 visitors at each hospital site, we are aware it can often be difficult to park at the hospitals and our staff do everything possible to assist visitors and patients to find a space."

The three options being examined are: One: to increase charges at both hospital sites to 1.20 at the Conquest and 1.40 at the DGH. This would raise an extra 116,000 per year.

Two: to introduce a charge of 1.50 for up to two hours and 3 for two hours-plus.

This would collect an extra 188,000 a year.

And three: to 'mirror' the charges in the council town centre car parks and introduce a charge of 1.70 for two hours.

This would raise an extra 259,000 per year.

Mr Stenton said: "A 3 charge, if introduced, would be for a whole day.

"It's worth pointing out that all funds raised from parking are used to fund patient care at the hospitals."

He added the Trust is working with Hastings Council and transport partners to improve public transport links.