Ipswich Hospital bosses have delayed the planned increase to staff car parking charge until the end of the month - but the decision has been labelled "shortsighted" by union bosses. East Suffolk and North East Essex (ESNEFT) which runs the hospital was set to introduce the hike from Monday, November 11. Under the proposals car parking charges for most staff are set to be doubled and even tripled in certain cases.
For example, the trust is due to hike charges for staff in Salary Band 2 from £0.46 to £1.50 while those in Salary Band 3 are set to see their rate treble from £0.
50 to £1.50. Increases in car parking charges for the majority of patients and visitors went ahead on Monday.
The new staff prices are set to come in on November 29. ESNEFT have said that they will continue to offer free car parking for staff at park and ride sites London Road, Pinewood and in Martlesham Heath. A new Ipswich shuttle service is due to start before November 29 when staff car parking charges increase in addition to existing park and ride services.
Staff are also entitled to 50% off bus season tickets and 10% off train season tickets as well as a 40% discount off the cost of a new bike through the Trust's cycle to work scheme. Free refurbished bikes will also be available for staff to cycle to work. Staff who are working night shifts or who have a disability will still be able to park for free at the hospital.
ESNEFT Chief Executive Nick Hulme said: "We understand any increases in car parki.