LAND currently allocated for a helicopter pad is set to be used to provide 150 parking spaces at the “overcrowded” Grange University Hospital.

Health bosses say the extra spaces are needed to avoid a serious accident and compensate for the temporary loss of 302 spaces when work takes place to add solar panel coverings to the existing car park.

The Aneurin Bevan University Health Board has now made a planning application for permission for construction of a temporary 150 space car park to be linked to the existing overflow car park.

The application acknowledges pressure on parking spaces at the hospital, saying the problem is expected to get worse when work to install the solar panel covers takes place, which could pose a danger to pedestrians.

Health bosses have applied to Torfaen Borough Council for planning permission for a canopy with solar panels to cover existing spaces at the hospital car park in May, and now wants permission for the temporary car park while work takes place.

The land is at the southern end of the hospital site and beyond the existing overflow car park.

The application also states that long-term “permanent” solutions to parking demand, and “inconsiderate and dangerous” parking at the hospital are under review, but says “the problem is so acute that additional provision is needed as soon as possible”.

According to the application form, the land is currently used as “a secondary helicopter landing area”.

The solar panels will cover a total of 220 spaces, but the work will impact 302 spaces due to the need for a site compound, safety zones and temporary alternative access routes.

Work to erect the panels is expected to take around six to seven months and due to start in 2026 and will be split into four phases impact between 60 and 100 parking spaces at a time.