KGH car park plan set for approval

The car park was the subject of a planning application in January.

The move will almost double the number of spaces available in that particular car park, from 227 to 451.

Car parking has been the subject of much public frustration at the hospital, with patients and relatives often caught in queues and nearby residents frustrated by vehicles parking inconsiderately.

Speaking after the plans were announced, acting chief executive Clare Culpin said: “We know that the lack of car parking spaces on the hospital site has been a constant source of frustration for our patients and visitors for years and hope that this application will be approved to enable us to finally address the issue.

“These plans are part of a broader programme of improvements to the hospital site and will result in better and safer flows for traffic and pedestrians.

“Access routes across the hospital site will be clearly marked for our emergency services and there will be clear and efficient drop off zones for taxis and non-emergency patient transport services.

“In summary, these changes will ensure that emergency vehicles are able to use clearly designated routes through to A&E quickly and safely and that patients and visitors will find parking on site much easier and KGH more welcoming.”

The plans received two comments of concerns from residents living in nearby Legion Crescent, who felt lighting on the top storey would be intrusive and would lead to a loss of privacy.

No other objections were received.

A report set to be discussed by planners concludes: “The proposal is in accordance with the relevant policies of the development plan and there are no material considerations which indicate planning permission should not be granted.

“The principle of development is established, there would be no unacceptable detrimental impact on neighbouring residential amenity and the design is appropriate.

“The application is recommended for approval, subject to conditions.”

The meeting starts at 6.30pm in the Kettering Council chamber on Tuesday, March 14.