Labor Candidate Advocates for Free 30-Minute Parking in Newcastle CBD
Labor's candidate for lord mayor, Declan Clausen, has launched a campaign to introduce free 30-minute parking in the Newcastle Central Business District (CBD). This initiative aims to attract more visitors to the city while maintaining efficient parking turnover, addressing concerns raised by residents about high parking costs.
Enhancing Accessibility and Affordability
Councillor Declan Clausen emphasized that parking expenses should not exceed the cost of everyday activities like grabbing a coffee or running errands. "Parking shouldn't cost more than the coffee you're grabbing, or the errand you're running," he stated. "When parking and transport are accessible and more affordable, more people visit our local businesses." He noted that many Novocastrians struggle with parking fees, which can deter them from supporting local shops and services.
The proposed change would double the current 15-minute free parking limit, with clear signage to inform drivers. This policy is part of Clausen's byelection commitments, but he remains open to pursuing it in council chambers regardless of the April 18 election outcome.
Reviewing Parking Management and Space Utilization
In addition to the free parking extension, the motion includes a request for the council to review parking spaces across the city. Data from the council's parking plan reveals that over 1,100 on-street spaces in the CBD are currently restricted or reserved, limiting availability. For instance, a mail zone in Mayfield occupies about two car-sized spaces despite the removal of a nearby mailbox.
Clausen highlighted the need for better management of these underutilized spaces. "We've got spaces sitting empty because of outdated rules," he explained. "We should be putting those spaces back to work for the community." The goal is to make the policy budget-neutral by optimizing existing parking resources.
Benefits for Local Economy and Community
By simplifying and reducing parking costs, Clausen believes more people will frequent Newcastle's CBD, boosting local businesses and job opportunities. "That's good for local jobs, and good for Newcastle," he concluded. This approach aligns with efforts to enhance urban livability and support economic growth in the region.
