Car parking and ANPR
Wirral University Teaching Hospital (WUTH) is launching a new Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system across its hospital sites, marking a major milestone in its ongoing commitment to improving car parking for patients, visitors and staff. This will be installed at Arrowe Park Hospital and Clatterbridge Hospital in summer 2026.
The new system, operated by private company, Parking Eye, is part of WUTH's wider car parking strategy aimed at making parking more efficient, safer, and easier to navigate. As a ‘ticketless’ system, payment is made just before leaving the hospital sites, as the time of vehicle entry into the hospital grounds is picked up on entry.
Visitors and patients will be able to park for free for up to 30 minutes, allowing for drop-off, pick-ups and attending short appointments. All visitors and patients must enter their registration details into the pay stations before leaving the site, where they will be notified of the charge. If you are eligible for free parking or have only been on site for up to 30 minutes, you will not be charged. This move is designed to discourage inappropriate parking and ensure fair access to spaces for everyone.
What is ANPR?
Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) is a technology that uses cameras and software to automatically read and recognise vehicle number plates.
How does ANPR work?
ANPR systems use high-resolution cameras to capture images of vehicle number plates at the entrance and exits of car parking areas. These images are then processed using Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software to extract the number plate information.
Why are we changing the parking system?
We are introducing a new parking system to improve the overall experience for visitors and patients.
The current parking system is now at the end of its life. It is becoming increasingly unreliable and can cause:
- Delays at entry and exit barriers.
- Queuing, particularly at busy times.
- Frustration when equipment does not work as expected.
This can make what is often already a stressful visit more difficult.
What are the benefits of the new ANPR system?
The new system is designed to improve your experience:
- Faster and easier access – no waiting at barriers.
- Greater convenience – pay via app or on-site options.
- Improved accessibility for all users.
- Reduced congestion and environmental impact.
Where will ANPR be used?
ANPR will be rolled out at both Arrowe Park and Clatterbridge Hospitals.
Will ANPR be active at night?
Yes, ANPR cameras are equipped with infrared technology and will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week across all the sites.
Will parking charges change?
Parking charges will remain clearly displayed on-site and online. The ANPR system changes how you pay, not necessarily how much you pay.
Who will manage it?
The ANPR system will be managed by the Trust’s Estates and Facilities Team in collaboration with the appointed car parking management provider, Parking Eye.
Can patients and visitors still be dropped off/picked up?
Yes, the area at the front of the hospital remains a 20-minute drop-off zone. New signage will be in place to make this clear.
How Do I Pay?
Parking payments are now made on exit. This can be done at the pay station or via the app (information on signage). Payment can be made by cash or card. Blue Badge holders must register their badge either at the pay station or at the Car Parking Office.
Do Blue Badge holders have to pay? Can they park anywhere on site?
Blue Badge holders can park for free in accordance with Blue Badge guidance and the signage displayed in each car park. They must register their badge to avoid charges.
What if I have a Blue Badge and can’t find a Blue Badge Space?
Blue Badge holders can park in any designated parking bay. If you are parked in an ordinary space and scan your blue badge prior to exiting the car park, then parking will be free. ANPR captures the vehicle on entry and exit. If you are parked in a Blue Badge Bay, you must display your badge. It should also be scanned prior to exiting the car park.
How is it going to work for those driving in and out trying to find a space?
A 30 minute free allocation is allowed from entering and exiting the site.
How will it work for taxi drivers who could be on site numerous times a day to pick up?
Taxi drivers will be allowed 30 minutes free access each time they enter the site and follow the signage instructions for each area.
Can you pay by cash or card?
All pay stations accept card payments. Some accept cash but we encourage you to pay by card whenever possible. You can also use the phone app to allow you to pay without needing to visit a pay station. You can download it before you arrive on Google Play or on the App Store.
Will I receive a ticket once I have paid?
No. Our new ANPR car parking system is pay on exit, so you no longer need to. The system will know you have paid when you exit as it will automatically recognise your number plate
When will the new system start?
The ANPR system will go live on 1st July.
There will be a short transition period to support visitors as the new system is introduced.