Proposal to Reduce Short Term Parking Charges at Daisy Hill

The Southern Trust is currently consulting on a proposal to change car parking charges at Daisy Hill hospital.

The proposals would see those parking for up to 70 minutes paying just 40p compared to the present £1.20. To compensate for this it is proposed to charge 20p more for stays from 70 minutes up to 2 hours and 2 to 4 hours increasing the rates to £2 and £2.60 respectively. Stays over 4 hours stay the same. The proposals apply to Craigavon hospital as well.

Hospital car parking charges were first introduced to the Southern Trust in 2009. Car parks closer to main hospital buildings are designated as charged car parks for the convenience of patients and visitors, while staff and those who do not wish to pay can use other parking around the site. The majority of car parking on both sites remains free of charge.

Anita Carroll, Assistant Director for Functional Support Services explains the proposed plans “Car parking is an ongoing challenge on our busy hospital sites and we are always looking for ways to improve accessibility within the limited space and resources available to us. 

“Without this income, funding currently used for patient care would have to be used to maintain our car parks. The last change to car parking prices was in April 2015, when we increased the charges to help cover rising maintenance costs. 

“We have recently reviewed the use of car parks and believe that by reducing the rate for shorter periods, we will encourage a quicker turnover, allowing more people to avail of a parking space throughout the day. 

“As always, we welcome the views of those who use our car parks in making this decision and encourage patients, staff and visitors to share their views.” 

The proposed changes will not affect anyone eligible for free or concessionary parking under the DHSSPSNI Policy for Car Parking Provision and Management in the HSC Sector.

You can share your views on the proposed changes until February 16 by contacting: Anita Carroll Assistant Director, Functional Support Services, Daisy Hill Hospital, 5 Hospital Rd, Newry, Co Down, BT35 8DR

Tel: 028 3756 2847   or Email:  anita.carroll@southerntrust.hscni.net