“Essential” engineering works will mean part of a hospital car park will remain off limits for at least another week.

A partial closure of Watford General Hospital’s car park will remain in place until 6pm on January 25 so that preparations for the new multi-storey car park can happen.

The works, carried out by Watford Borough Council, are part of the Riverwell scheme.

The multi-story car park is expected to be completed by 2020.

Staff and visitors are being encouraged to use alternative forms of transport and to carefully consider their route where possible.

Watford General can be reached by mainline train via Watford Junction, London Overground via Watford High Street or London Underground via the Metropolitan Line to Watford station.

Bus routes 10, 320 and 520 all serve Vicarage Road.

Drop off spaces are also available adjacent to the main clinical facilities, including the cardiology and maternity buildings.

Paddy Hennessy, director of environment at West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust, said: “I’d like to thank staff and visitors for their patience whilst the engineering work takes place.

“The work is an important step in preparing for the new multi-storey car park, which will significantly improve car parking at the hospital for the future.

“We’re sorry for any inconvenience this may cause for staff, especially whilst they are working so hard to provide the best care for our patients.

“We’re particularly grateful to all members of staff and visitors who are using alternative forms of transport and car sharing whilst we make these improvements.”