Russells Hall Hospital is updating its parking with ANPR. Users react concerns over lack of spaces and access.
The new system is ticketless. You can pay for parking on-site or with an app. The hospital wants your input, urging staff and patients to fill out a survey. Your feedback shapes the final design.
The survey asks about a “grace period” – how long to drop off or exit without paying. The options range from five up to twenty minutes. They also ask about payment after leaving. You can choose a timeframe of 24 to 72 hours.
Unpaid parking will result in fines, specifically Civil Penalty Notices. The fine gets reduced for quick payment. The survey asks about a fair payment window with choices being five, seven, ten, or fourteen days.
Blue badge holders get free parking in disabled bays. However, they must register their badges. You can register online, at a machine, or an office. The survey also asks about badge validity length. Options include six months, a year, or badge expiry.
Many people shared concerns on social media. Spaces are needed before anything else, according to Liz. Claire noted parking issues make people miss appointments. Sharon wants a multi-story car park and more disabled bays to help ease traffic.
Jayne allows two hours before appointments to secure parking. She explains it’s hard to find blue badge spaces after 8 AM which creates challenges with regards to her mobility issues. She wants a multi-story solution, which is needed, she adds, for all hospital car parks.
Diane Wake, the Dudley Group NHS Trust chief, expresses delight about the new software. She explains that patients and visitors won’t need tickets anymore, meaning traffic flow will improve. Visits will be much smoother.