PARKING charges for disabled drivers at a flagship Hounslow clinic have been suspended following a number of complaints.
Blue badge holders have always been allowed to park for free at the Heart of Hounslow Health Centre, in Bath Road, Hounslow, which became one of the country's first polyclinics in 2010.
However, health chiefs decided to introduce charges for people using disabled bays from Monday (March 5) last week as part of a new parking policy.
The move caused outrage among visitors, who claimed they were given no advance warning about the change and it had been poorly advertised.
Jack Patel, a blue badge holder who regularly visits the centre, said he saw at least 10 cars with tickets on the day the charges were introduced.
"I wouldn't mind paying the fine if we'd been properly warned and there was a clear sign advertising the changes, but this is like a stealth tax for visitors," added the 57-year-old retired engineer.
Following a number of complaints, NHS North West London, which manages the clinic, last Wednesday (March 7) decided to suspend charges for disabled spaces pending a review.
A spokesman for the organisation told the Chronicle it originally changed its policy to ensure there were sufficient places for genuine visitors. He said the move had been publicised at the clinic in advance.
"Since the introduction we have received a number of complaints from disabled people about the notice given on this change, and having listened to the nature of these complaints we have decided to suspend the charges," he added.
"We will consult with people who use these bays, patient advisory groups and local organisations for disabled people before making a decision on whether to reintroduce charges or not.
"Our aim is to ensure patients visiting the Heart of Hounslow have full access to site facilities."
