Parking plans
I have now read several articles on parking recently that all put up an argument from different perspectives. Previously, I served at Heart of Gisborne for six years, including three as City Manager, an organisation dedicated to the CBD retailers. My research across New Zealand and globally reveals the complexity of parking, with no straightforward solutions, but I have deduced some fundamental principles regarding parking and consumer behaviour.
Grey Power wants two for one when it comes to parking.
Customers invariably desire complimentary, unrestricted parking, whereas shop owners advocate for vehicle turnover to enhance their business. Different businesses seek parking durations that align with their operations. For instance, takeaway outlets and similar short-stay businesses prefer 15-30 minute parking, while the theatre requires a 3-hour limit to accommodate moviegoers.
The key is to align car park usage with a balance of turnover and demand. An optimal 80 per cent parking occupancy rate seems to be the target, theoretically leaving spaces available for potential customers while allotting a reasonable shopping duration for parked patrons. The busier the parking, the shorter the allotted time should be. Simplicity is crucial.
I also enquire if a comprehensive parking survey has been conducted. Informed decisions require a thorough understanding of the issues at hand. Parking abuse, such as long-term parking by employees and employers, poses a significant challenge. Then there is the topic of enforcement. Not an easy discussion, but none the less, it goes with the parking restrictions. What other concerns arise from both retailers and customers remains to be explored.
The recent move by Council to increase the parking time by 100 per cent to 2 hours, is interesting. Parking at times is already at a premium, especially along Alexandra St. You are in effect reducing the number of available parks in the CBD, at what is arguably the busiest period for retail. Is this really supporting retailers?
The debate continues.
Ken Huberts
Te Awamutu
Letters to Editor
