Concerns over hospital's new parking technology

The hospital currently runs its own parking system

Concerns have been raised over plans to bring in automatic number plate recognition to a hospital's car park.

South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust said it would introduce the technology at James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough later this year.

Union Unite said the "full implications" of the move had not been "properly considered" and warned enforcement could lead to a rise in fines.

The trust said the technology was in place at its other sites and would "simplify" parking. Provider ParkingEye said it had "lots of experience" working with hospital trusts.

Parking at the hospital is currently run by the trust alongside Serco, the union said.

It said it was disappointed about the lack of what it called "meaningful consultation" with staff.

The trust said feedback was "welcome" and had been "encouraged via staff briefings".

Unite said one key issue was a lack of parking spaces "especially during peak hours".

It said it had concerns that enforcement measures could lead to a rise in fines for both staff, patients and visitors as well as have a "detrimental impact" on nearby residents.

'Easier and safer'

The trust said it was working on a "wider plan" to improve parking at its hospitals such as reducing traffic by encouraging car sharing.

It was also looking to bring the technology to Friarage Hospital in Northallerton, North Yorkshire, it said.

ParkingEye said it had "lots of experience" and its systems "enhance accessibility and make parking easier and safer".

It added it was in "early discussions" with the trust about implementing its system at the hospital.

People at James Cook would be allowed to park and then pay when they left, it said.

The trust also said the new system would remove the need for barriers "which can cause significant delays".

"Blue badge holders will still be able to park for free and permits will still be available for regular visitors," a spokesperson said.