The new 'managed' car park scheme was launched on April 21 in response to concerns over the safety of staff and students, both car users and pedestrians, at the main college campuses.

Under the new arrangements, staff and students have been issued with permits free of charge and spaces are available to them on a first-come first-served basis, with additional designated provision for disabled drivers, visitor parking, short stay and drop off areas.

A dissatisfied student told the Gazette 'this would be fine if we had enough parking bays'.

The college said it recognises that car parking is a 'social problem that it cannot solve', and more people want to park at both campuses than available spaces. But it does offer more than 950 car parking spaces and said this is more than most colleges. Local planners have indicated that they would not wish to see further provision for cars at either main campus.

In order to assist staff and students to make alternative travel arrangements, the college has implemented a range of 'green travel initiatives' such as a car-sharing scheme — more than 60 staff have already signed up — and a cycle to work scheme. This scheme allows staff to save up to 40 per cent of the costs of a bicycle and protective equipment, and students are encouraged to share car journeys. The college has also been in discussion with local bus and train companies to improve public transport provision.

As a result of the lack of parking, students have been leaving their vehicles parked on yellow lines or on the grass, but under the new arrangements penalties will be issued to those who park without a permit or who park in an unsafe position.

The 'dissatisfied student' is angry with the parking situation and said 'if you have paid for your course then you should be able to park on campus'.

The student says many are now using a nearby supermarket's car park, which has the right to clamp.

The student added, "The issue now is that students that drive, can't park if they get to the college later than 8.45am, but this is a problem if your course starts later like most at 9.30am.

"So many students now who don't arrive in time, are having to go back home. Many of the staff are angry."

John Blake, principal and chief executive of Sussex Downs College, said, "We have spent a lot of time and energy considering possible solutions.

"We have listened closely to staff and students who overwhelmingly do not favour a scheme where we charge users.

"We are working on ways of reducing demand by the promotion of alternative travel arrangements and by providing better facilities for cyclists and those arriving on foot or by public transport.

"Already there are far fewer cars illegally parked along the entrances and exits to the college, ensuring the safety of those who wish to access the college facilities by car, by bicycle or by foot and, importantly, enhancing access to the college by the emergency services if needed."

A spokesperson for the college said the scheme has generally had positive feedback, and it will be reviewed in July when responses from all users will be taken into account.