Following a number of protests and discussions with local organisations, the trust is reintroducing a one-hour parking charge at both hospitals.

A new one-hour charge of £1 will be introduced to resolve the row.

Chief executive Alison Guy said: "We've had some really constructive discussions with the Patient Forum and with PAGER, and some sensible suggestions from the West Hill Residents' Association in Bridlington.

"The principal concern was the same – that for those who only need to attend the hospital for a short time the four-our minimum charge was not appropriate.

"We have listened to their reasoning, and as a result we are introducing a charge of £1 for the first hour."

The trust is completely reviewing its parking policy at present, and is in the process of seeking the views of a wide range of people and organisations.

This in turn will form part of the trust's green transport policy, which demonstrates its commitment to
energy conservation and environmental responsibility, as required under
government regulations.

There will also be careful consideration of the "exclusions" to the parking charges, which determine who can receive free parking permits for frequent visits, whether as a patient or visitor.