Long queues after glitches hit new Walsall Manor Hospital car park machines

People complained of the long waits and took images of the queues forming at times outside the hospital.

Walsall Manor bosses apologised after admitting issues had arisen bringing waits of more than 30 minutes.

Visitor Sonia Smith said she had to wait for 35 minutes on Monday after problems with the new pay machines.

The 51-year-old said: "We all know the parking is bad at hospitals but to queue for that long, it's horrendous.

"Everyone was complaining but nothing is being done.

"It is shocking. When you're ill you don't want to do that."

Chief operating officer Ned Hobbs said issues over the "unfamiliar" system and a delay in implementing an option to pay by card had been behind delays.

He said two new payment machines will be added in the coming weeks to ease any further delays.

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused since the installation of our new parking machines. As with any new system some issues have arisen," said Mr Hobbs.

"On occasions queues have built up due to people having to check their registration number before entering it and others have been unfamiliar with how to use touchscreen equipment.

"In addition there was a short delay in the debit/credit card/smartphone option being set up.

"We will be adding two extra payment machines over the coming weeks which will reduce queues and will be introducing a smartphone payment app that allows people to pay via their phone or tablet.

"We thank people for their patience as we work to establish a more efficient system.”