Parking overflow from a major Sunshine Coast hospital is being reviewed, with council analysing survey results to find solutions to congestion concerns in surrounding residential streets.
The review follows calls from the Birtinya Residents Action Group, after concerns were raised about the impact of Sunshine Coast University Hospital (SCUH) parking on nearby streets.
Local resident Tim Backman raised the issue in the Birtinya Community Group Facebook page, asking Division 3 Councillor Tim Burns what changes had been made since previous discussions about parking pressures.
“It’s incredibly frustrating,” he wrote.
“I understand that it’s expensive for staff to park at the hospital. I personally think the hospital should be providing a solution through subsidies or something similar, but the issue is just being handed along to the rest of us to deal with daily,” he said.
A Sunshine Coast Council spokesperson said council had completed parking occupancy surveys across Birtinya to better understand demand and usage patterns.
“The surveys were carried out throughout Birtinya to provide a comprehensive understanding of parking demand and identify areas experiencing the greatest parking pressures,” the spokesperson said.
“The surveys have now been completed, and council is currently reviewing and analysing the results to determine appropriate next steps.
“Once the analysis is complete, recommendations will be developed to achieve a balanced and sustainable outcome for residents, hospital staff and other visitors to the area.”
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Other community members also shared concerns online about the impact on hospital workers and nearby residents.
Angus Iwers said hospital staff, who provide essential services, should not be facing significant parking costs at their workplace.
“Personally think it’s ridiculous that hospital workers, who are essential and literally help save lives, can’t even park at their place of work without being charged a quarter of their shift in parking fees,” he said.
Ra Ra Ell said the issue required a broader discussion about hospital parking arrangements.
“Surely the solution is easy. Don’t privatise parking at hospitals and make parking free for everyone for two hours and longer for staff when working,” they said.
“That is a state government issue though not council. Doesn’t it feel wrong that there’s this private company making a profit off sick people.”
A Sunshine Coast Health spokesperson said car parking at SCUH has been operated and managed by Exemplar Health since the hospital opened in 2017, with staff able to access discounted on-site parking.
“Sunshine Coast Health staff are also able to access salary packaging arrangements to further reduce the out-of-pocket costs for car parking at Sunshine Coast University Hospital,” the spokesperson said.
“This arrangement is available to eligible employees as part of the broader suite of salary packaging benefits.
“SCUH has been master-planned to deliver a number of transport options including a public transport hub, pedestrian and cycle links, as well as the secure car parking.
“End-of-trip facilities are also available if people run, walk, cycle, or e-bike to work.”
