LUDLOW MP Philip Dunne says that cuts in hospital parking charges will reduce the cost of health care in south Shropshire.

New Government guidelines to reduce car parking charges at local hospitals could help save money for patients and their families according to the MP.

Although hospital parking policies are set by individual trusts, the Government has recommended introducing measures to cut the costs of parking for certain groups.

This includes introducing pay on exit schemes, so drivers only pay for the time they use, as well as free or reduced parking charges for families of patients having to stay in hospital for some time.

“For patients, their families and hospital staff, the cost of parking at hospitals is often a serious concern,” said Philip Dunne.

“In a rural area like South Shropshire, where public transport is not so easily accessed, travelling by car is often the only way of visiting hospital. Hospital parking costs can add a real strain to family budgets at what can be a very stressful time, so I welcome the Government’s action on this issue.

“Shrewsbury and Telford Hospitals have already implemented a number of these proposals but I hope these guidelines will provide some further examples of how patients can be helped with the cost of parking.”