Dismay over new parking rules at Burgess Hill shopping centre

Robert Eggleston, leader of Burgess Hill Town Council, told the Middy that residents were concerned about the ‘botched roll out of the new parking management regime’.

Mr Eggleston said a new sign had been put up at the shopping centre car park saying charges now apply on Sundays – which he said would make it the only car park in Mid Sussex that charges on this day.

He said he was concerned that vehicle registration plates being recorded on entrance or exit could run the risk of drivers being fined if they enter the car park to drop someone off or pick someone up.

He also said disabled badge holders having to visit the management office on the first floor of Market Place to register for free parking was ‘discriminatory’.

In response, Sam Mansell at the shopping centre said Sundays will remain free and that signage was being updated due to the ‘error’.

“The signage is due to be updated this week with the correct information on,” she said.

“There is a grace period in place to allow for pick ups and drop offs, the BPA states that there should be a grace period of ten minutes so vehicle drivers do not need to be afraid of this.

“In order for us to offer free parking to all Blue Badge holders and due to the car parking system being ANPR and the cameras not being able to pick up on a Blue Badge displayed upon a dashboard we are asking Blue Badge holders to register their Blue Badge numbers against any vehicle in which they may use. There is no limit to the amount of vehicle they wish to register.

“This is a one time process where the customer can either pop into Centre Management or call us on 01444 230 362.”