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PAID parking at the new Bendigo Hospital precinct looks likely to be scrapped, however time restrictions will continue to be heavily enforced.
A City of Greater Bendigo report has advised councillors to vote against paid parking at the Bendigo Hospital precinct.
They have been recommended to instead amend the start time of restricted bays around the block from 9am to 7am.
In October last year, a dedicated parking officer was employed to enforce parking restrictions throughout the hospital precinct.
More than 100 per cent more parking infringements were issued as a result, as well as a noticeable decrease of vehicles overstaying time restrictions.
As a result, a report before councillors recommends they refuse paid parking around the hospital block.
Instead it suggests amending the start time of the restricted bays around the block at Stewart, Bayne, Lucan and Arnold Streets and introducing two hour time restricted parking on the north side of Drought Street, between Arnold and Lucan Streets.
All time restricted parking would be enforced from 7am to 5.30pm, seven days a week.
Parking manager Neville Zimmer said the changes would further free up parking for hospital patients and their visitors.
“There are some small pockets of time restricted parking that operate five and a half days per week, however it is proposed that all signage is amended to reflect the recommended restrictions for the sake of consistency,” Mr Zimmer said.
“The introduction of the two-hour limit will provide additional medium-term parking within close proximity to the hospital and other medical services.
"Communication with residents on this proposed change has been very positive.
“Although it is anticipated there may be many additional changes required to parking restrictions in the hospital precinct during the construction phase."
He said any changes would follow consultation with Bendigo Health and affected businesses and residents.