Lister Hospital Parking Guide

Navigating Your Visit: A Comprehensive Guide to Lister Hospital Parking

Planning a visit to Lister Hospital can bring about a mix of emotions, and the last thing you'll want is the added stress of finding suitable parking. This guide aims to demystify the parking situation at Lister Hospital, providing you with all the essential information you need, from locating the hospital and its car parks to understanding the various charges, concessions, and special arrangements. Whether you're a patient, a visitor, or a concerned relative, this comprehensive overview will help you prepare for your journey and ensure a smoother experience.

Locating Lister Hospital

Lister Hospital is situated in Stevenage, Hertfordshire. The main hospital address is Coreys Mill Lane, Stevenage, SG1 4AB. However, knowing the main address is just the first step. To make your arrival as seamless as possible, understanding the proximity and accessibility from various points is crucial. We’ve compiled a list of nearby car parks that offer convenient access to the hospital, along with estimated walking and driving times.

Nearby Parking Options:

When approaching the hospital, follow the directional signs to the main hospital entrance from each of these car parks. The primary objective is to reach the hospital safely and efficiently.

The Lister Hospital Multi-Storey Car Park (MSCP)

The most convenient parking option is often the dedicated multi-storey car park located at the hospital itself. This facility is managed by Saba Parking and offers a substantial number of spaces, designed to accommodate a high volume of visitors. Understanding its features and how it operates is key to a stress-free arrival.

Key Features of the MSCP:

• Capacity: The MSCP boasts a total of 636 spaces, including a significant allocation for Blue Badge holders.
• Technology: It utilises Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology. This means you won't receive a ticket or token upon entry. The barrier will lift automatically as your number plate is read.
• Payment: Payment is made at machines located by the main entrance. You'll enter your vehicle registration, and the system will calculate your charge. Payment methods include cash, card, contactless, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.
• Car Park Office: The Saba Parking Shop, where you can seek assistance or make specific inquiries, is located within the multi-storey car park.
• Vehicle Height Restriction: Please note that the maximum vehicle height for the main car park is 2.1 metres. For taller vehicles, the ambulance drop-off area on the ground floor can be used, but it's important to inform the Saba Parking Shop attendants if you need to utilise this space.

Motorcycle Parking:

For motorcyclists, Lister Hospital provides 14 dedicated parking spaces within the MSCP. Crucially, these spaces are free of charge. However, it is vital to adhere to parking regulations and avoid parking on double yellow/red lines, red hatched areas, areas designated for Trust permit holders, or outside of marked bays.

Understanding Parking Tariffs and Charges

Lister Hospital's parking charges are structured based on duration. It's important to be aware of these costs to manage your expectations and budget accordingly. The Trust states that any revenue generated from parking is reinvested into maintaining the parking facilities, with the belief that NHS funds are best utilised for patient care.

Current Parking Tariffs (as of the provided information):

Note: These prices are subject to change, with a noted increase planned for Monday 1 September 2025. For the most up-to-date information, it's always advisable to check on-site signage or contact the hospital directly.

Concessions and Free Parking Entitlements

Lister Hospital recognises that parking costs can be a burden for some visitors. Several concessionary schemes and free parking entitlements are in place to alleviate this:

Blue Badge Holders:

Blue Badge holders are eligible for free parking at Lister Hospital. The hospital provides 64 dedicated Blue Badge spaces within the MSCP, conveniently located on Level 4 and all floors above, close to lifts. Wheelchairs are also readily available to assist with access. Level 6 features automatic doors to aid those with mobility issues.

How to claim free parking as a Blue Badge Holder:

1. Ensure your Blue Badge is clearly displayed on your vehicle's dashboard, with the clock set to your arrival time.
2. Take the barcoded section of your Blue Badge with you into the hospital.
3. Before leaving, proceed to the pay machines located in the hospital entrance and scan the barcode. This will validate your parking for free exit.
4. Alternatively, you can scan the Blue Badge barcode at the exit barrier.
5. If you encounter any issues, use the intercom to contact the Saba Parking Shop for assistance.

For those parking in pay-and-display car parks outside the MSCP, ensure your Blue Badge is displayed at all times.

Frequent Outpatient Attenders:

Patients who attend a high volume of appointments at Lister Hospital may qualify for free parking. The criteria are:

• Attending a minimum of three clinic/treatment appointments per month.
• This frequency must be maintained for a minimum of three consecutive months.

Important: Attending for blood tests alone does not count towards this qualification. Wards and departments will notify the facilities team, who will then liaise with Saba Parking to arrange free parking for eligible patients. Your name and car registration number will be recorded to ensure no charges apply.

Parents of Sick Children Staying Overnight:

For parents or guardians of children under 18 admitted as inpatients overnight, free parking is available between the hours of 7:30 PM and 8:00 AM. This applies to a maximum of two vehicles. To avail of this, please speak to the nursing team on the ward before leaving. They will provide a voucher to take to the Saba Parking Shop, where the overnight parking cost will be deducted.

Special Passes:

• Butterfly Pass: For individuals receiving care under 'The Individual Care Plan for the Dying Person', free parking for up to 5 days (24 hours per day) can be arranged, limited to one vehicle. This is requested by the Ward to the Butterfly Service.
• Rose Pass: This pass is issued to the families of infants who have died, including stillbirths, or where a family has made the difficult decision to end a pregnancy due to fetal abnormality. It provides free parking for up to 5 days (24 hours per day) for one vehicle and is issued by designated staff within the Maternity Unit.

For these special passes, it is crucial not to use the pay machines before speaking with a staff member at the Saba Parking Shop.

Concessionary Parking Passes for Regular Visitors

For individuals who visit long-stay patients or attend regular appointments, concessionary parking passes can be a cost-effective solution. These passes are available for purchase from the Saba Parking Shop. It’s recommended to speak with the relevant ward or department to request these passes.

Concessionary Pass Tariffs:

Financial Assistance for Parking Costs

For patients on low-income benefits, the option to claim reimbursement for travel costs, including parking, is available through the National Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme. Claims can be made on weekdays at the Cash Office, located inside the hospital near the main lifts to the tower block, or by post using an HC5(T) form. This provides a vital safety net for those facing financial difficulties.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lister Hospital Parking

Does Lister Hospital offer free parking?

Yes, free parking is available for Blue Badge holders, for motorcycles, and under specific concessionary schemes such as frequent outpatient attenders and parents of children staying overnight. There is also a 20-minute grace period for drop-offs and pick-ups.

How do Blue Badge holders get free parking?

Blue Badge holders need to display their badge clearly, take the barcoded section into the hospital, and scan it at the pay machines or exit barrier to validate their free exit. Assistance is available via intercom if needed.

Where is the multi-storey car park located?

The multi-storey car park is located at the hospital itself, with the main address being Lister Hospital, Coreys Mill Lane, Stevenage, SG1 4AB. The Saba Parking Shop is located at the base of the MSCP.

What are the parking charges for visitors?

Charges are based on duration, starting from £3.80 for up to 1 hour and increasing incrementally. It's advisable to check the latest tariffs on-site or contact the hospital.

Can I pay for parking with my phone?

Yes, payment can be made using cash, card, contactless, Apple Pay, or Google Pay at the on-site payment machines.

What if my vehicle is taller than 2.1 metres?

If your vehicle exceeds the 2.1-metre height limit for the main car park, you should use the ambulance drop-off area on the ground floor of the MSCP and inform the Saba Parking Shop attendants.

By familiarising yourself with this guide, you can approach your visit to Lister Hospital with greater confidence, knowing the ins and outs of its parking facilities. A little preparation can go a long way in ensuring your focus remains on what truly matters – your health and the well-being of your loved ones.

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