RUH to look again at car parking policy

THE RUH is to review its car parking policy after heavy criticism over unfair charges and fines.

Health chief Brian Gubb says the hospital is working hard to address the issues highlighted by Melksham News.

Last week, he met with Brian Warwick of Melksham Seniors – the group set up to represent views of elderly people in the town – and promised to look at people’s concerns.

“It was a very constructive meeting,” said Brian Warwick. “I was reassured that the hospital will be looking again at their car parking policy to provide a fair system that doesn’t punish people for either not seeing a sign or making a simple mistake when entering details into the car parking machines.

“The hospital is looking at the issue and will be letting people know of their plans inside the next two weeks.

“He promised a statement in time for the next issue of Melksham News.”

Car parking at the RUH has been heavily criticised by drivers saying they have been unfairly fined or charged by ParkingEye, the company that enforces the car parking regulations at the RUH.

Following a letter in Melksham News, dozens of people came forward with complaints, saying they had been unfairly sent fines despite paying; that they had been fined despite registering their blue badge; that the pay machine did not charge them the correct amount; that the signage is poor; and it isn’t clear how to use the system.

Patients and visitors complained the charges add extra stress to people who are often visiting the hospital for appointments, tests or seeing loved ones, often in stressful circumstances, and say too many mistakes are being made.