FI15201

Request

  1. Before opening DDC put out a press release to advise visitors there will not be any parking and to use DDC car parks to park.  Why was this done?  Why was the car park at the Roman Painted House not used as empty?
  2. It is a legal requirement to provide parking for disabled people so why was this not provided?
  3. When does DDC intend that the car park should again be used?
  4. Many disabled people were witnessed being refused use of the car park, so will DDC issue an apology to those affected?
  5. What is the name of the security company DDC engaged to provide a security guard on some of the days the site was open?  Why was security with such a presence considered to be necessary?

 

Response

  1. Works to the building and site are still in progress. Staff have been focused on the substantial works that were needed to make the building itself safe and thus allow it to be reopened to the public. The land is not currently designated as a Council car park.  
  2. There is no legal requirement to provide parking for disabled people on this area of land.  The Council is considering the management arrangements for the use of this area of land, including carrying out works, such as surface repairs, lining and formally designating the land as a car park with allocated disabled parking.  
  3. The Council is considering the management arrangements for the use of this area of land, including carrying out works, such as surface repairs, lining and designating the land as a car park with allocated disabled parking.  In advance of these works taking place, we are introducing a facility to allow those requiring disabled parking to pre-book a space with us.
  4. The Council holds no recorded or documented information about this issue.  Visitors were advised that there would not be any parking on site, with links provided to wider car parking options within Dover Town Centre.
  5. Everest Group UK was the security company engaged by DDC to provide a security guard. We do not hold any recorded or documented information as to why such security was considered necessary.