MP Luke Myers starts a petition against ParkingEye at JCUH. It gains widespread support due to concerns about vulnerable people
The petition has a lot of support. Patients, staff, and locals signed it. Over 3,000 people already signed. They worry this system hurts vulnerable people.
ParkingEye makes drivers guess their visit length. Most companies let you pay when you leave. This forces guesses from patients that have emergencies.
Myer thinks this system is unfair. He believes sick patients should not pay. He said staff should not pay to save lives. He wants proper consultation about parking.
Doctor Jack Fletcher shares these concerns. He worries about the impact on doctors and patients. Fines could unfairly penalize both groups, he stated.
Clare Williams also voiced worry. She thinks ParkingEye will hurt NHS staff. She said it will add stress for patients. They will worry about parking fines.
The hospital trust plans parking changes. They want to use number plate recognition (ANPR). This covers hospitals in Middlesbrough and Northallerton.
Right now talks are early stage, so don’t worry. The new parking system might start in the summer. The hospital will talk more with staff.
Visitors can pay when leaving the hospital. They enter their car registration at kiosks. Free parking stays for blue badge holders. Regular permits remain available.
The trust says it will improve safety. This system should reduce exit delays. It gives data to manage traffic better. The system also standardizes parking between hospitals.