Parking reminder ahead of long weekend

With increased traffic movements expected ahead of the long weekend, Shire of Augusta Margaret River Rangers are taking the opportunity to remind drivers to adhere to local parking laws.   In recent weeks, Shire Rangers have observed a significant number of parking offences in the Shire, with Gnarabup Beach carpark posing a particular concern.   Shire Chief Executive Officer, Stephanie Addison-Brown said during last weekend’s patrols at Gnarabup, Rangers observed more than 40 vehicles parked illegally, including 10 vehicles parked on median strips, and more than 20 vehicles parked in bays reserved for boat trailers.   “Rangers are seeking to educate the public in the first instance and on this occasion only issued two infringements, and one warning, for vehicles that were blocking the footpaths,” she said.   “While a lack of parking during peak times can be frustrating, illegally parked vehicles can obstruct sightlines for other drivers, and cause people to walk into traffic flows to get around blocked footpaths.   “Blocked accessways can be particularly difficult for people with prams or those who use mobility aids such as wheelchairs and impede on their ability to access services, facilities and recreational spots.   “Parking on vegetation can also cause environmental damage and dune erosion,” she said.   Ms Addison-Brown said beach congestion issues have been raised by residents, but there is also a reluctance in the community to remove significant coastal vegetation and habitat that would be required for the creation of more parking bays.   A number of alternative measures that the Shire is taking to manage parking demand includes:

New signs recently installed permitting standard vehicle parking in boat trailer bays after 12pm. It is requested that people leave these bays free for boat ramp users before 12pm as there are no other parking bays for boat ramp users in the Gnarabup area. Limiting event permits in summer at Gnarabup. Relocating some activities and permit holders to Gracetown. Capping current seating numbers for the White Elephant (an increase to the indoor seating for winter periods has been permitted, but the total capacity will remain unchanged).

“Please exercise patience in the Gnarabup Beach carpark, and adhere to the parking laws,” Ms Addison-Brown said.   “Keep off footpaths and median strips, and don’t park over yellow lines.   “Above all else, have a happy and safe long weekend.”