It is time to make a decision on a multi-story car park
Posted by Kevin de Vries - executive officer | 17/03/2009
The Bendigo Business Council welcomes news that the City of Greater Bendigo Council will this week consider the construction of a new multi-story car park in the Bendigo CBD. The BBC urges the Council to commit to a car parking solution for our growing city.
BBC executive officer Kevin de Vries said today that demand for parking in central Bendigo has now reached a point where the Council must act to meet the present and future requirements of the city.
"There has been substantial debate, over the past decade and perhaps longer, on Bendigo CBD car parking issues. Prolonged community discussion has occurred with business operators, trader groups and members of the public. The City of Greater Bendigo has undertaken at least two major studies in this time, and two significant new buildings have been constructed." Mr de Vries said.
"It is critical for business operation that easy, safe and ready access to business premises is available, day and night, seven days a week, for customers, staff, delivery drivers and business operators."
"The Council studies and community dialogue on this issue recognise that more parking is required in the Bendigo CBD now and into the future to support the needs of businesses, shoppers, business clients, staff, city workers and rail travellers. This finding is supported by the contact the Bendigo Business Council has with business operators in the city."
The BBC believes that while all alternatives should be considered to address parking needs: including public transport improvements, private/council partnerships, park & ride options, cycling, walking and other creative solutions; it should be realised that many workers, shoppers and business clients travel considerable distances by car to do business in central Bendigo.
"Charges on existing CBD car parking generate considerable revenue for the city. The proposed development should be funded from money already budgeted, and current and future CBD car‑parking revenue." Mr de Vries said.
"Enough consultation has occurred, a strategic site has been chosen, it is now time for Council to act decisively to build a new car parking asset for the community."
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