Warning for drivers who block hospital access

Drivers who block roads and cause a nuisance at Stafford Hospital will be fined under new plans unveiled today.

Bosses said it was not a money-making move but a deterrent to stop bad parking. They are also considering extending double yellow lines and red routes at the site. NHS chiefs said it was imperative amubulances have clear access.

Spokeswoman Deborah Neal said: "The introduction of fines for inappropriate parking is being considered.

"We already have double yellow lines and red routes on some parts of our site to make sure that emergency vehicles have clear access and it is possible that these may be extended to more areas of the site.

"Inappropriate parking isn't a big issue for us but it does happen on occasions and this might be parking near to entrances so that ambulances aren't able to get as near as they should or parking on approach roads so that ambulances have to wait to overtake them.

"Fines would be a deterrent, not something the trust would be looking to make money from. There would also be warnings for first offences, there would not be fines straight away."

The trust is now working out what to charge for the penalties.

The move comes after health chiefs submitted plans to wide the hospital's entrance to improve access and keep bus operators happy. Bus firm Arriva had warned it would cut off services if access to the hospital did not improve. That plan is worth around £100,000 and is being considered by the council.