THE number of parking spaces at a multi-million-pound hospital in Haddington will more than double this summer.

East Lothian Community Hospital, which opened to inpatients last November, currently has 179 spaces.

However, the lack of spaces has led to people who are visiting the hospital parking on nearby streets, including Davidson Terrace and Haldane Avenue, which has sometimes frustrated residents and caused access problems for local bus services.

Councillor Tom Trotter, who lives on Davidson Terrace, said: “There have been approaches and comments made regarding the state of parking.

“That is the reason that cones were put out but I do notice they are progressing with the last part of the car park, which will hopefully attend to the needs of people needing spaces.

“There has been a couple of things with regards some of the workers, who were using Davidson Terrace to park but, again, once the last part of the car park is complete it should take care of the roads around about there.”

The £70 million hospital, built on the site of the former Roodlands Hospital, includes a range of services, including endoscopy procedure rooms and six wards, totalling 132 beds in single en-suite rooms.

But it does not have a minor injuries unit nor an accident and emergency department.

The final phase of work at the hospital includes the construction of a new car park and landscaping of the hospital site. Mr Trotter was keen to see that in place as soon as possible.

Alison Macdonald, chief officer, East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership, said: “Car parking at East Lothian Community Hospital is currently limited as the final phase of work, including the demolition of the old Roodlands Hospital, takes place.

“This work is due for completion in May and, once finished, will more than double capacity to provide over 400 car parking spaces on site.

“As this final phase of work continues, we apologise for any inconvenience it may cause.”