Free parking extension for CBD back on agenda

A push for a six-month trial of extended free parking on Stafford St is unexpectedly back on the table, with Timaru district councillors due to vote on it at a meeting today.

The trial – which could begin this week – is up for debate again after councillors and council staff met with members of the Timaru CBD group last week. The proposal is to double the current 30 minute time limit in Stafford St from George St to Strathallan St.

The council last discussed the issue on November 27, where it was resolved that councillors would re-debate the issue in the new year.

However, the issue is back earlier as the council has been able to slot in discussion about the trial before today’s submission hearings for the Alpine Energy share sales proposal.

Timaru CBD group chairman Nigel Gilkison said it was good news that the council appeared to be listening to the group’s concerns.

‘‘Even if they don’t vote in favour, the fact it’s back in discussion is a positive step. ‘‘The discussions with councillors and council staff were very favourable.’’ Gilkison said a six month trial would provide councillors and retailers with vital information.

‘‘Generally speaking, I don’t see that much opposition to this. Most people would like to have more time to park in the CBD. I don’t think there would be a lot of objections to this.’’

A report prepared by council group manager for infrastructure Ashley Harper argues that by ‘‘identifying only the George St to Strathallan St section of Stafford St for the trial, a number of issues associated with national chain stores is avoided and therefore it is understood the trial can commence immediately’’.

Harper’s report also suggested that the trial would not require much work for the council to implement.

‘‘Land transport unit staff

‘‘Even if they don’t vote in favour, the fact it’s back in discussion is a positive step.’’ Nigel Gilkison (left)

have arranged for the printing of new overlay decals for the 16 parking signs that need to be changed, and should council agree with the recommendations then these signs can be amended within a day or so.’’

Harper’s report says that it was acknowledged the council was considering long term of options for the CBD and that ‘‘any changes to parking time limits would not predetermine or govern any CBD strategy development’’.

Gilkison said the parking trial should form part of a wider discussion about the CBD and what needs to be done to improve it for both locals and retailers alike. ‘‘We stressed the need for a broader CBD plan, which would take some time to complete, but hopefully we can get the dialogue started on that.’’