Greater parking opportunities as a result of CBD trial

A parking trial, aimed to increase the turnover of parking spaces in the Toowoomba CBD, has revealed positive results since the trial began on 5 August, 2019.

The early result of the trial, which expires at the end of October, shows a significant increase in the turnover of parking spaces available for customers.

Toowoomba Regional Council Infrastructure Committee portfolio leader Cr James O’Shea said the year on year comparison for August had shown the turnover rate more than doubled since the implementation of the trial with all the feedback received so far incredibly useful.

“In August 2018 the average turnover rate was approximately 1400 vehicles per day compared to August this year where the average turnover rate is approximately 3200 vehicles per day,” he said.

“From what we’re hearing, some businesses are noticing an increase in customers, which in turn has increased their turnover. One business even stated they’ve experienced a 30% increase in profits which is a great outcome.

“Of course, not all of the businesses have experienced these sort of results, and where we can, we are trying to accommodate the needs of the entire community where possible.

“An example of this is the change we made at the northern end of Ruthven Street. To help customers and visitors secure longer term parking options, Council has increased the timed paid parking on Bowen Street from two hours to three hours for the 13 parks closest to Ruthven Street.

“This additional time will ensure customers, who have longer appointments can obtain parking for the duration.”

In addition to the current trial, Council is investigating the opportunity of introducing permit style parking across various parking locations in the CBD.

“These pieces of work are all elements of a broader approach Council is undertaking as part of the CBD Car Parking Strategy review,” Cr O’Shea said.

“We recognise the need for accessibility to CBD businesses and the convenience that being able to park within a short distance to the desired destination can provide to both customers and businesses.

“We encourage business owners to make sure their staff are using the mix of all-day parking options which are currently available across the city, including the Herries/Water Street, Chalk Lane, Neil Street Bus Station, Station Street, Julia Street, Annand Street and Central Street car parks, to ensure there are adequate spaces available in the CBD for customers.

“During the trial, we’ll continue to monitor any change in turnover and encourage the community to provide feedback, so we can come up with the best solution moving forward.”

The CBD central car parking trial will be reviewed in November 2019.

For more information about the CBD, parking trial go to www.tr.qld.gov.au/cbdparking