OXFORD MAIL readers have been giving their solutions to parking issues at the John Radcliffe, after hospital bosses said they could install number plate recognition cameras. 

Daily gridlock and long waits have led to dozens of formal complaints during the last year, and Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (OUH) has admitted the situation led to some families being placed in ‘considerable distress'.

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The trust board has now approved plans for an Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) and Variable Message Signs (VMS) in the visitor car parks at the John Radcliffe and Churchill Hospitals in Headington. 

But now readers have given their responses to the idea - and most are unimpressed. 

Debby Hallett questioned the use of the new scheme, asking 'how does the 'solution' solve the problem?' The sentiment was echoed by various others noting it was more spaces, not number plate recognition, that was needed. 

Andy Lauder added bluntly: "What an absolute joke. Wasting money on ANPR and a sign to tell you what you already know - 'car park full'. This is short sightedness at its finest. Just build a bloody multi-storey."

Numerous others agreed with that solution, with Val Timms labelling the simple solution 'not rocket science'. 

Natalie Odell summed up a significant portion of commenter feeling when she wrote: "This is a joke. There is a bloody massive field near the JR, build a car park in that. ANPR is a waste of money as there will still be no bloody spaces."

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Dave Stribling took a slightly different view, suggesting purchasing land off-site nearby and setting up a dedicated Park and Ride service. The idea seemed popular with readers and was one of the most 'liked' comments. 

Al Lowe had another suggestion for cyclists, commenting: "OCC may wan't to consider extending the A40 cycle track up to the JR and provide secure cycle sheds."

Commenter 'Selig' was less sympathetic, though.

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He said: "It's very simple. Stop electing the same morons to the Oxford City Council. If we want change then we have to vote for it. The council wants you to wait longer for parking. Wants you to have a miserable time in traffic to even get to the JR. Why? Because everyone should ride a bike.

"Please select different people to council. The current Oxford Council machine doesn't care about you. Only their principles matter."

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Meanwhile, 'United Weststand' had a constructive suggestion for a shorter term solution, arguing: "Use local parking spaces on apps like JustPark and myparkingspace, they're guaranteed, short walk that's less stressful than finding a space, easier access at busy times and mostly reasonable prices that's paid for in advance so no need to stress about change on the day."