Calls have been made to extend a restricted parking zone in Worthing to create easier access for care staff.

In a questionnaire conducted by East Worthing MP Tim Loughton and borough councillors, 70 per cent of residents who responded supported Dawes Avenue, Dawes Close and Colebrooke Close, near Worthing Hospital, being included in the town's parking zone.

Several residents said they rely on regular visits from care staff and family members but their carers are unable to park in the three roads because of non-residents taking up spaces. Car dumping in the area was also an on-going problem.

Mr Loughton said: "Following my walk-about in the area and subsequent meeting with the chief executive of Worthing Homes and local residents in the summer and as a result of the findings of the questionnaire, I am determined to raise the important issues and suggestions with West Sussex County Council.

"I will be asking for urgent talks with the local hospital and businesses whose staff park in the streets.

"I will keep residents fully informed about my progress on this issue and will organise a further meeting involving local councillors and residents if necessary."

West Sussex County Councillor for East Worthing Irene Richards, said Worthing's parking zone was extended to Windsor and Ladydell Roads in spring this year. Dawes Avenue was not included in the extension because, at the time, only half the residents supported such a move in a county council consultation.

She is currently liaising with the county council's highways department to see if the zone should be extended again.

Coun Richards said: "It's difficult with Dawes Avenue because, as a majority body, it is not in the zone because that's what they wanted."