BY ISABEL EVERETT
A nine-year parking plan was adopted at Newcastle Council's Tuesday night meeting, which is unlikely to see the creation of new spaces.
The Council says parking problems across the city are a result of how the spaces are managed, not a lack of supply.
The plan rules out adding any more parking meters in the city, however could see parking costs increased in high demand areas, and lowered in underutilized spots, as well as reduced parking where strong public transport links exist.
Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen says building just one new carpark in Newcastle costs between $50,000 and $126,000.
"They're phenomenal sums of money and it means we need to think very carefully about our investment decisions, and try to better utilise the parking which is already available before we rush into new expensive operations which will cost rate-payers millions of dollars."
"Overall there remains quite a number of vacant spots, especially at places like the No.2 Sportsground located a five-minute walk from the CBD, which as of yesterday only had about a 20% occupancy."
The proposal also suggests reviewing time restrictions in central business and shopping districts to ensure turn over, and prevent people parking in front of shops and restaurants for excessive amounts of time.
The locations where changes will be implemented are yet to be determined, but Mr Clausen says it's not about making rushed decisions.
However, Cooks Hill, The Hill, Newcastle East, City East, The Foreshore and Hamilton were all identified as often passing 85 per cent capacity, and were likely locations where time limits and paid parking, or increased fees for existing paid parking could be introduced.
The Council is also looking at how the proceeds of parking meters can be directly re-invested into the areas they are located.
"I think that will make a huge difference in people's perception of paying for parking, I don't think any Novacastrian likes paying for parking, but I think it's a real innovation to see the money re-invested in local precincts, rather than into some sort of consolidated revenue."
The proposal also looks at ways to decrease the number of people driving into town on their own, by promoting ride-sharing, cycling and working from home, as well promoting the continued use of the easy-park app.
Image Credit: Newcastle Herald
