Staff angry over new parking system at Russells Hall Hospital

Dec 28 2010 by Matt Lloyd, Birmingham Mail

A NEW parking scheme at Dudley’s Russells Hospital has left many staff angry and some facing long bus journeys to work from across the region.

A £6 million car park was officially opened recently, but staff claim the scheme hasn’t worked properly.

Hospital bosses admit that overall there is only one car parking space for every four members of staff, but hoped the project would relieve congestion on existing car parks and encourage staff to use public transport.

However, one member of staff claimed workers faced long journeys that included changing buses or trains at least once.

Under the new scheme, staff can apply for passes at prices ranging from £5-£15 a month.

But those living close to the hospital or who do not need their cars for work are less likely to get a pass and face charges of £5 a day.

Asking not to be named, the Dudley Group of Hospitals worker said: “A lot of staff aren’t getting the passes and some from Birmingham are having to get two or three buses.

“People who live up to nine miles away might have to use public transport. It’s ludicrous.”

The worker said: “People are really kicking off about it. They don’t know if they’re coming or going.”