Parking studies for three local towns

The Baw Baw Shire Council has announced it is undertaking an assessment of parking pressures in Drouin, Yarragon, and Trafalgar.

Baw Baw Shire Mayor Cr Michael Leaney said the studies are being undertaken as the council understands car parking is a concern for residents, business owners, and visitors.

"With the help of the community and the project consultants, we are aiming to develop some practical and financially viable parking solutions to meet the growth of our community," he said.

"I greatly encourage our residents to get involved with this consultation by completing the short survey and coming to chat with us at one of the pop ups".

Initial parking assessments were completed in Yarragon and Trafalgar back in 2015, which resulted in several recommendations for both towns, including improved truck parking facilities, increased parking enforcement, and a review in the 2021 to 2022 financial year.

Drouin's most recent parking assessment was in 2018 and made a number of recommendations, including a subsequent study in 2019 to 2020 financial year.

However, this subsequent assessment could not be completed during this time due to the pandemic's impact on local parking demands.

HDS Australia consultants will be conducting car parking data collection in each town later this month and in May.

The council will be working closely with the community in various stages of the studies to understand their parking preferences and desired outcomes.

There are a number of opportunities for community members to get involved.

A short online survey opened on Monday and will remain open until Sunday, 1May 1 - this can be accessed through the council's 'Have Your Say' page.

Pop-up sessions will also appear in each town to allow community members to ask questions and provide feedback.

These will be held at:

Yarragon, on April 26, 4pm to 6pm at Yarragon Public Hall (7 Campbell St, Yarragon).

Drouin, on April 27 4pm to 6pm at Drouin Kiosk (71 Princes Way, Drouin).

Trafalgar, April 28, 4pm to 6pm, at Trafalgar Community Centre (105 Princes Highway, Trafalgar).