UPDATE: Tweed Valley Hospital is set to significantly alleviate parking woes for visitors and staff by adding 130 new street-level parking spaces. Local company Alder has been appointed to oversee this urgent expansion, which will increase the hospital’s total parking capacity to more than 1,300 spaces. The announcement comes amidst ongoing frustrations from hospital visitors grappling with limited parking since the facility opened in May 2024.
The additional parking spaces will primarily be constructed on a grassed area south of the existing multi-level car park and along Ring Road on the northern boundary of the hospital campus. These enhancements include upgrades to existing facilities, such as new signage and improved parking management systems. The project, expected to conclude by the end of 2025, will be executed in stages to minimize disruption to patients, staff, and visitors.
This development follows an extensive operational review of the hospital’s transport and traffic arrangements, which involved consultations with emergency services. Community frustration has escalated, with one visitor recounting a distressing experience where they were threatened by security staff while attempting to visit a dying parent.
Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park emphasized the importance of this project for the local community, stating, “These works will boost capacity on site to more than 1,300 free parking spaces, improving access to the hospital and vital health services.” He acknowledged the feedback received from staff and the community, which played a crucial role in moving this project forward.
Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin added that the hospital serves a busy community with hundreds of staff delivering essential healthcare daily. “We trust this additional free parking will ensure a better experience for patients, their families and carers, and of course our wonderful staff,” she remarked.
The community eagerly anticipates these changes, as the hospital has become a vital resource for the growing populations of the Tweed-Byron region. As work progresses, updates will continue to be provided to staff and community members to ensure transparency and engagement.
This expansion aims not only to enhance the parking experience but also to support the hospital’s mission of providing high-quality healthcare to the community. The urgency of this project reflects a deep commitment to addressing the needs and concerns of those who rely on Tweed Valley Hospital every day.
Stay tuned for further developments as this important project unfolds.
