The entrance height barrier at Queensway car park is now open after lobbying from local Conservative councillor Jacquie Russell, but the concession by Mid Sussex District Council is only temporary.
Unlocking and opening the barrier allows access for high-sided mobility and trade vehicles but is described by the council as a 'short-term measure' while alternative solutions are investigated. What they might be is not yet clear.
The barrier installation caused widespread concern from many who use the central car park. One user said the minibus for his disabled son had literally got stuck under the barrier and damaged the vehicle. And those with trade vans suddenly found they were unable to park overnight as they had always done. Others have questioned the "complete waste of hard-to-come by money installing them".
Cllr Russell (pictured) took the matter up on behalf of residents and ended up lobbying the council Leader, providing information where other local authorities have higher height-restrictions in place to permit minibuses and traders to park.
“It’s open for now but we will have to see what materialises”, said Cllr Russell. “This is not a complete U-turn by the council, more a reprieve at present.” Writing on social media, the councillor suggested that, as the access road (Queensway) is MSDC land, it may be possible to create bays specifically for the larger vehicles who want to park.
The Lib Dem-led council says it is still reviewing longer-term access solutions for the site. Cllr Russell and fellow Conservatives say they will fight for permanent legitimate access for those who need to use the car park.
Anyone with a concern is asked to contact the council - email:[email protected]
