Parkingeye’s contract at Friarage Hospital raises worries about fines, space shortages, and impact on staff and local area.
The contract starts at the end of March. Unions are unhappy about the lack of consultation. Unite warns the impact was not fully considered. Staff struggle to find spaces at The Friarage, especially during busy times. The union says parking is a big problem.
Sharon Graham called charging staff immoral, stating many are low paid. She added Parkingeye is known for parking charges. The trust should consider its workers first. Northallerton Town Council has worries, too. They are concerned about parking near Friarage.
Construction vehicles impact road safety. Policy changes could worsen street parking issues. The council fears increased parking problems, including nearby streets and green areas. Rishi Sunak is helping constituents on this issue. He will contact the South Tees Trust.
Union leaders think fines will increase, adding stress to workers and visitors. Unite wants more consultation and safeguards against unfair penalties. The union will escalate if needed. Sharon Bailey said staff face immense pressure already. Parking penalties add financial drain.
She is worried about staff, patients, and families who visit during tough times. South Tees NHS defends their choice. They state they engaged staff through briefings and social media. The goal is safety for everyone, including emergency vehicles.
They explore car sharing and electric bikes. Public transport and flexible times are options. A park-and-ride service is being considered. University Hospitals Tees uses ANPR already. Parkingeye says they are in early talks.
They claim their system improves car parks, enhances access, and makes parking easier. It is safer for staff, patients, and visitors. Their system makes hospitals run smoothly and ensures people park in the right areas. The system at both hospitals will be “Pay on Exit”. They will educate users on parking rules.
These assurances have not eased concerns. UNISON and Unite started petitions. Over 3000 signed to stop Parkingeye. The system affects Friarage and James Cook. UNISON says there was no consultation.
Staff can’t find spaces now. Unfair charges will affect struggling staff. Unite mentions Parkingeye’s aggressive enforcement, highlighting spaces are not enough. Staff and visitors cannot always park rightly. Staff work late often, and appointments run over. Patients, staff, and visitors will pay more as a result.