Central Maitland parking draft study now on public exhibition

Earlier this week, Maitland Council endorsed the draft report which is a review of the parking situation in Central Maitland and outlines recommendations to improve parking accessibility.

It recommends short to long term actions that seek to optimise existing parking in the area, ultimately to support Central Maitland's economic growth and viability.

It was developed after extensive community consultation, parking surveys and assessment.

"The vision of the Central Maitland Parking Study is to guide efficient management of parking resources, improving access to local businesses in Central Maitland for all users," Council's Manager Engineering & Design Kevin Stein said.

The study includes an action plan with an range of initiatives and an implementation timeframe.

The initiatives include a clear parking hierarchy aided by parking management precincts that provide clearer signage for time restrictions and better lighting and protection from the elements for off-street carparks.

It also includes parking sensor technology to manage parking, trialling technology to assist with enforcement and monitoring, charging stations for electric vehicles, and parking wayfinding signage. Independent councillor Philip Penfold said he supported the report going on public exhibition but he had "concerns".

"We have the opportunity to future plan and we aren't taking it up. We have the perfect site that exists between Elgin and Church Streets, a block from High street near The Levee," he said.

"I would like to think that this council could take the opportunity to plan ahead and develop a multi-storey car park." He also raised concerns over the three-year timeframe of the draft report.

The draft study is on public exhibition for feedback until Sunday, April 11.

For more information, to read the draft Study or make a submission online, visit maitlandyoursay.com.au.