A COUNCIL leader has said it was not unreasonable to ask a doctor’s surgery to pay for use of new parking spaces.

Maldon District was given permission to demolish St Cedds House in Princes Road, and build the new car park last year.

Last month the Standard revealed patient groups had called on the Blackwater Medical Centre in Princes Road, to be offered some spaces.

Patients often struggle to park due to the limited spaces outside the practices.

When questioned about why the council had requested payment, Miriam Lewis said: “Maldon District Council as a guardian of public funds must seek to ensure that best value is achieved in all of its activities, including generating a return on the use of one of its assets.

“The Blackwater Medical Practice is a commercial provider and it is not therefore felt to be unreasonable to request a contribution from them.”