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With the introduction of free car parking at hospital sites being deferred for two years, the Department of Health are warning patients, visitors and staff of possible disruption at hospital sites including Daisy Hill from next week as they are waiting for legislation to allow them to continue charging to come into force. While this is happening car parking will remain free, something that they are suggesting could cause congestion at some sites.
A media release said "There are concerns that an increase in demand for parking during this limited free of charge period could lead to congestion at some hospital sites, potentially contributing to delayed or missed hospital appointments."
Free hospital parking provision had been passed by the Assembly in 2022, with car parking charges due to end on 12 May 2024. However, it was subsequently agreed by the Executive last month that the planned introduction of free parking should be deferred for two years to allow for the necessary infrastructure to be implemented at hospital sites.
The legislation deferring this measure will not be in place by 12 May 2024, meaning there will be a limited period when car parking charges will not be in force.
The process of securing the two-year deferral legislation has required a series of stages including Executive discussion and agreement; scheduling of Assembly time for debate and votes; four separate Assembly readings of the legislation; granting of Royal Assent for the legislation. The fourth and final reading in the Assembly was on 7 May and the Department remains hopeful that the Royal Assent process will conclude over the following weeks, meaning the required legislation should be in place by the end of May.
Car parking permits for eligible healthcare staff will be provided free of charge throughout the two-year deferral period.
