Parking problems continue after rise in West Suffolk Hospital's car park charges

An increase in car parking charges at West Suffolk Hospital has resulted in drivers 'filling up' nearby streets in order to avoid paying.

Peter Hobson, who lives in Barons Road opposite the hospital, said that staff and patients are avoiding the parking charges, which increased by three per cent last month, by parking on grass verges in his street and walking up to the hospital.

"It's been going on for months. We used to get the odd one but now I see up to nine at any one time," he said.

"Filling up the spaces on the road is one thing but it's an eyesore to have cars parked on green spaces and it's ruining them. They're supposed to be public spaces, not car parks for hospital workers and visitors."

He added: "I don't want bollards or signs up because they're also eyesores. I think the only way to solve the problem is to ticket them. Otherwise, they'll just think it's okay and start parking on the greens and ruin them too."

A hospital spokesperson said that the hospital encourages people to use alternative forms of transport where possible but also opened 400 extra parking spaces for those who drive.

"Unfortunately, we only have control over our own car parks and have no authority over nearby public roads. If there is an issue with a particular location that is causing community concern, we'd encourage the resident to contact the local Suffolk Constabulary Safer Neighbourhoods team, which will provide support as appropriate,'" she said.