National Party Leader Judith Collins says her party will fix the car park problem at Christchurch Hospital if elected.
National Party Leader Judith Collins
Car parks are in short supply around the hospital and visitors are forced to use the council car park building on Lichfield Street, and then use a shuttle bus to get to the hospital to visit patients.
Collins told Chris Lynch on Newstalk ZB this morning, not everyone can walk, bike or take a bus to hospital.
She says it’s outrageous visitors and some patients have to park on the other side of Hagley Park and it’s a sign the Government doesn’t like cars.
She says she’s been discussing the issue with Gerry Brownlee and says a site next to the hospital at Hagley Park could be made into a car park.
“You can’t just bike, walk or take a bus, and some visitors and patients are elderly.”
“I just think it’s so stupid and silly” – not to have a hospital car park.
“This is sort of stupid stuff that Government should just front up and sort out.”
Christchurch Central Labour MP Duncan Webb
Last week, Christchurch Central Labour MP Duncan Webb said a hospital car park should not be a political football.
“To do so plays into the hands of commercial parties.”
Mr Webb said “the fact is that suitable parking is part of the transport options needed for the hospital, along with effective public transport and cycling, walking options.”
“Ultimately a carpark for a hospital is for the District Health Board to provide, but I know that everyone involved wants an effective solution and is working cooperatively towards it. “
In April, Councillor Phil Mauger criticised the Christchurch City Council for its lack of interest in supporting a carpark at the hospital.
He said “having witnessed in council the amount of time, effort and money spent on getting 6 lighting towers across the line for cricket it is time to focus on the needs of those who use the hospital.”
The Ministry of Health is responsible for car parking facilities in Christchurch.
