COUNCIL PROPOSES PARKING FEE INCREASE

Newcastle’s Lord Mayor has downplayed controversy over a proposed increase to parking fees in the CBD.

Nuatali Nelmes says she won’t be supporting the rise, until the state government comes good on its transport plan for the city.

In a statement, a spokesperson for Newcastle Council says:

“The parking station fees proposed in council’s operational plan are consistent with those charged by other operators in the same precincts.

 

This is in line with State Government competition principles for councils or other government agencies operating businesses in direct competition with private operators.

 

On-street parking fees have been at their current level for three years and will remain so.

 

Fees for off-street parking are determined to attract longer-stay customers and encourage drivers who only need a short stay to park on the street. This reduces long-stay parking in metered and timed zones to increase vehicle turnover for the benefit of businesses and residents.

 

A maximum all-day fee of up to $25 is proposed for the Mall Carpark during special events, which would require it to open after hours or by special request during evenings or on weekends and public holidays.

 

The all-day flat fee would be determined on an event-by-event basis, with free parking for certain events such as carols by candlelight and Anzac Day.”