PEOPLE who abuse parking at a health centre could be fined under new plans. 

Bolton Health Diabetes Centre has applied for a number plate recognition system to monitor its car park. Royal Bolton Hospital, which owns the land, says a new system is needed to protect spaces for those who need them. 

Parking is managed by Bolton iFM for the hospital. 

Lesley Wallace from iFM said: “Currently, to park at the Centre, patients and visitors have to purchase a ticket. 

“The ‘parking eye’ system is a solution to prevent abuse of the parking rules and ensure the spaces are available for genuine site users. 

“Access to the car park will remain the same. 

“Should the planning application be granted, clear signage will be put in place explaining the rules and the change, and reminding people to be considerate and leave the spaces for people using Bolton Diabetes Centre only. 

“There will still be free parking for blue badge holders and we are exploring reduced rates for those people who have to attend lengthy or repeat appointments. Parking will remain free for staff.”

An application submitted to Bolton Council seeks permission to install an automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) camera on a pole and related signs around the car park in Chorley Road. iFM say the car park has 70 spaces and if approved this will not change.

Patients visiting the centre receive help for all aspects of diabetes including lifestyle consultations, dietary reviews and insulin support.