Jon Hebditch
Aberdeen Royal Infirmary’s multi-million pound new car park will finally re-open to patients and visitors tomorrow after being plagued by problems.
The £10million, 1,000-vehicle multi-storey, funded by donations from oil industry magnate Sir Ian Wood, was first opened in October but was quickly shut again as contractors dealt with major electtrical issues.
Last night an NHS spokeswoman apologised for the delay and said repairs had now been completed.
And she issued a warning to staff not to use the facility – which is exclusively for patients and visitors.
She said: “We apologise for the sudden closure of this facility in October and the long period of time it has been unavailable.
“This was due to a problem with the main incoming electrical supply to the car park which caused issues with the electrical distribution and electrical equipment within the facility. We are pleased to say that repairs have been completed and externally verified.
“We know how frustrating it has been for all site users to have this facility completed but unavailable. It has been equally frustrating for us and we can only apologise again for the disruption.
“This facility has been generously funded by The Wood Foundation. A condition of this funding is that the facility is for the use of patients and visitors only. This car park is not open to staff (while on work duties), contractors or members of the public not attending an appointment or visiting a patient.
“We understand that our staff can also be our patients and visitors. You will be able to use this facility only if attending as a patient or visitor.
“We would appeal to members of the public to only use this facility when they have an appointment or a relative or friend to visit. Taking advantage of these spaces at other times will prevent genuine visitors from attending appointments or spending precious time with loved ones.”
