PATIENTS and visitors to Fairfield General Hospital are now having to pay up.

Car parking charges were finally introduced at the beginning of the month despite widespread opposition and threats of legal action by the Community Health Council. The health watchdog body is, however, still fighting to have the charges overturned.

Charges will start at £1 for up to four hours; £2 for four to ten hours and £3 for ten to 24 hours. cars displaying disabled permits will be exempt from the charges.

Wheel clamping will be in operation to deal with non-payment and cars parked indiscriminately. It will cost £6 to have the clamp removed.

Extra revenue generated by the charges will be used to improve car park security and safety for patients and staff, include improved lighting, additional security staff and closed circuit television.