Ipswich City Council is seeking community feedback about regulating off-street parking at a major parking site in Springfield Central.
Infrastructure, Planning and Assets Committee Chairperson Councillor Andrew Antoniolli said council is considering introducing an off-street regulated parking area at Parkland Drive, Springfield Central.
“We currently have an interim local law managing carparks located at 134 Parkland Drive. This local law came into effect on 2 February 2024 and will expire on 25 July 2024,” Cr Antoniolli said.
“The interim local law’s purpose was to allow for equitable use by the community, of the off-street parking area at the Springfield Central Community Centre.
“The effect of the addition enabled the regulation of the off-street parking area, and we are now seeking consultation on the future of this parking area.”
Deputy Mayor and Division 2 Councillor Nicole Jonic said the area had previously been unregulated and council had complaints of motorists using carpark spots for the entire day.
“We received consistent feedback from the community that spots are taken for up to eight hours a day, sometimes more, and prevent other drivers from accessing the community centre,” Cr Jonic said.
“Council wants to make it fair and equitable for everyone and will look at various options in regulating the period of time people can park there.”
Division 2 Councillor Paul Tully said the carpark, in addition to being adjacent to the community centre, was close to Springfield Central State High School, St Peters Lutheran College Springfield, Springfield Central State School and the Springfield Central Sports Complex.
“Naturally, unlimited free parking is extremely valuable and sought after. While council believes everyone accessing these schools and facilities should have use of the carparking, it needs to be regulated to make it fair for all motorists,” Cr Tully said.
“Residents have until 30 June 2024 to share their thoughts on if they support or object to council regulating parking at this busy location. This feedback will be used to inform council when the proposed changes are considered at a future council meeting.”
The current arrangement would continue which allows motorists to park in certain signed areas of the location for up to three hours only on school days between 8am and 5pm, free of charge.
Residents can complete the online submission form, print and either scan and email to [email protected] or deliver in person to council at 1 Nicholas Street, Ipswich Central.
Consultation will close on 30 June 2024.
