Introduction of Parking Charges

To ensure continued access to medical care, we are introducing a small parking charge of £1 per visit (up to 4 hours) at Estuary View Medical Centre. We understand that this change may be inconvenient, and we want to share the reasons behind this decision and how we are minimizing the impact on patients

Why Are We Introducing Parking Charges?

• Since 2009, we have had access to 90 free parking spaces at Estuary View Medical Centre on land owned by Graham Land & Developments. This arrangement has now ended due to upcoming construction of a new care home. 
• 96% of patients travel by car, and without new parking, Estuary View would become unviable as a medical facility.
• To maintain access, we are investing £1.25 million in a new overflow car park, which we must fund ourselves.
• External funding options, including NHS and local authority support, have unfortunately not been available.
• Increased misuse of our parking facilities across all sites by non-patients has further reduced availability for those needing medical care.

New Parking System: What You Need to Know

• Charge: £1 per visit (not per hour) covering up to 4 hours of parking.
• Grace Period: 10 minutes for drop-offs to ensure no charge.
• Exemptions: Blue Badge holders can scan their badge at the machines for free parking. Frequent attenders (at least 3 appointments per month for 3+ months) can ask reception for exemption.
• Payment Options: On entry, exit or within 48 hours of leaving. Payment can be made via coin, card, contactless, or via parking apps eg: Ringo, Just Park
• Ticket: this is not a pay and display system. No need to place ticket in your car. Keep your receipt safe.
• Registration number: Enter carefully and double check your registration to avoid an unnecessary fine.
• Implementation Timeline:
  • First site: Estuary View Medical Centre (December 2025).
  • Other sites: To follow based on need and successful rollout.
  • Clear signage will be in place before charges take effect.

Ensuring a Fair and Well-Managed Parking System

• A professional third-party management company, Horizon Parking Ltd, a British Parking Association (BPA)-registered company, will oversee parking. They are contractually required to operate fairly, and we will closely monitor their performance.
• Our front of house team will, if necessary, be on hand to assist patients to use the payment machines
• Fines will be issued for breach of car park rules. These are reduced to £20 if paid within 14 days.
• Practice staff on site will not be able assist with ticketing queries. Queries must be sent via our secure online form

Our Commitment to Patients

We have made every effort to keep this charge as low as possible and ensure minimal disruption. While we would have preferred to continue offering free parking, this change is essential to maintain access and high-quality healthcare services at our practice.

Thank you for your understanding and support.

The Management Team and Partners at Whitstable Medical Practice

Published: Nov 25, 2025