A PARK and Ride service has been given yet another 12-months extension.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) is extending the free transport service, which takes patients from the former Hotpoint factory site in Bodelwyddan to Glan Clwyd Hospital, while plans for long-term improvements to parking provision at the hospital take shape.

The Park and Ride service was originally introduced as a temporary measure to support parking on site while work took place to remove asbestos and renovate the hospital, and the current arrangements had been due to cease at the end of this month.

Rod Taylor, director of Estates and Facilities, said: “We continue to ask visitors to help us to reduce the impact of traffic on site.

“Visitors are urged to consider using public transport where possible, and to take into account the time needed to find a parking space when planning a visit to the site.

“We ask staff to consider looking into car-sharing arrangements to help free up parking spaces. Staff can also access the cycle to work scheme.”

A review of parking demand and capacity at Glan Clwyd Hospital is now nearing completion.

BCUHB said they will retain a park and ride service beyond March 31 2020, pending the progression of a Business Case to Welsh Government for additional new parking capacity on site.

The Park and Ride scheme was introduced in October 2014 to help ease parking pressures and traffic congestion while redevelopment work went on at the hospital.

In line with Welsh Government policy, car parking at Glan Clwyd Hospital remains free of charge.

There has been doubt over the continuation of the service for some times.

It was initially expected to cease at the end of June 2019, but following mounting pressure from the public, it was decided it would carry on until October 2019.

It then received another six extension.

The service is used by thousands of patients.