A Steeton councillor has welcomed plans to extend the parking area at Airedale Hospital.

The hospital announced plans last month to create a new staff parking area, which, in turn, would free up 80 additional spaces for the public on the west car park.

Councillor Andrew Mallinson, who represents the Craven ward, welcomed the move and said he hoped it would solve a “chaotic” situation.

“There is a fight for parking spaces,” said Coun Mallinson. “At peak times [during visiting hours], they don’t have sufficient spaces for car parking.

“People have to drive around the car park waiting for a space to open up, and others will park on grass verges or up bankings. It’s chaotic, to say the least.”