The Southern Trust are looking at the possibility of anew parking strategy following a number of high-profile incidents recently, according to one local MLA.
The DUP’s Carla Lockhart met with Helen O’Neill, the Head of Estate at Craigavon Area Hospital, to discuss parking issues for both visitors and staff at the hospital given some negative press in recent weeks.
At the meeting they discussed the availability of parking at the hospital and how in the past year the Trust has been able to add over 200 additional spaces.
During the recent problems issues were highlighted including how on one occasion an emergency vehicle was blocked by an illegally parked vehicle.
The Trust are already committed to looking at the possibility of a new parking strategy which will look at issues such as the inclusion of designated staff parking, pricing tariffs and promotion of available spaces.
Speaking after the meeting Ms Lockhart said: “This was a very productive meeting and I want to thank the Trust for giving up their time to meet with me.
“This is an ongoing problem but I am happy to see plans in place to address this for both visitors and very importantly staff.
“Our under pressure health workers need to know that they will be able to find parking spaces when they come in for their shifts and that their vehicles will be safe when they are working.
“I did articulate the need for extensive engagement regarding any potential changes and I raised my concerns and objection around charging for car parking across the entire site.
“This was a useful engagement and one that we will continue to have as this is of benefit to everyone.”
