Demolition of unused lock-up garages in Dundee could hold the key to alleviating parking problems around Ninewells Hospital.
For years, residents have had their quality of life blighted by congested streets, packed with staff and hospital visitors keen to avoid paying parking charges.
That has seen exhausted residents locked in a waking nightmare struggle as they are unable to park near their homes and struggle to welcome visitors.
Now Dundee City Council is considering demolition of almost 100 lock-ups on six streets surrounding the hospital.
Though community consultation will take place before any action is taken, some of the sites could eventually make way for permitted resident parking.
It is hoped that such a step would remove a “significant” number of vehicles from streets, making the Menzieshill area a more pleasant place to live.
Councillors, including Lord Provost Bob Duncan, believe creating new parking would find favour with residents, who have faced disappointment in recent years over efforts to address the problem.
Speaking to The Courier, Lochee councillor Norma McGovern said: “Menzieshill is a very congested area and I constantly receive complaints from constituents.”
She added: “There is not an easy solution other than perhaps vastly reducing the cost of parking for staff and visitors to Ninewells.
“I would welcome the creation of additional parking, but it would be vital that it was protected for the use of residents and not just to enable hospital staff to save a few pounds.”
Lochee councillor Tom Fergusson said it was vital communities be consulted before any action is taken.
“A great deal of thought needs to be given to the eventual outcome for these lock-up spaces,” he said.
“Any decision must be allied to the key priority of improving the quality of life of residents around Ninewells and elsewhere in the city.”
Councillors have agreed to demolish 184 lock-ups and garages at nine sites across the city.
Many of the units identified for removal have been empty for months because of their location, deteriorating condition, security concerns or their size.
Consultations are also likely to take place on the future use of any sites that are cleared.