Highland MSP Edward Mountain is 'horrified' at the congestion at Raigmore Hospital Car Park after his visit earlier today and now calls on NHS Highland to finally get the barrier system working
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Highlands and Islands MSP Edward Mountain is “horrified” at the congestion at Raigmore Hospital Car Park following his visit to the facility earlier today.
He is now calling for NHS Highland to fully install the barrier entry system which will free up more car parking spaces for patients, staff and visitors.
Mr Mountain launched the Raigmore Parking Campaign in the summer of 2018 and collected 1000 signatures as part of a petition calling for improvements to be made.
While a car park extension was completed in 2019, NHS Highland were unable to fully implement the barrier entry system.
While barriers have been installed, they are still not fully operational.
For years those travelling to the hospital have complained about spaces being taken up by selfish motorists using it as a park and ride.
Mr Mountain said: “Today it took me 15 minutes to secure parking at Raigmore and I wasn’t the only one having difficulties. I was horrified to see people driving round in circles struggling to find a space.
“This really isn’t good enough. NHS Highland have informed me that the barrier system won’t be operational until July 2022 – it should have been ready three years ago. Why is it taking so long?
“The barrier system will ensure there is controlled parking at the Hospital – it is crucial that this is fully introduced sooner rather than later to ensure more spaces are freed up.
“I’ve been campaigning for the car park to be enhanced for years and it continues to be a source of frustration for patients, staff and visitors.
“NHS Highland have made a lot of promises about improving this car park and it’s now time to see urgent action.”
Related Story – Hospital car park expansion starts in Inverness
