Newcastle City Council to Review Parking Regulations to Support Small Businesses

COUNCIL MEETING – In a move aimed at boosting local commerce, Newcastle City Council has unanimously supported a motion to review and potentially extend parking hours in the city’s central business district. This initiative is designed to improve the availability of parking for customers, thereby enhancing trade for small businesses.

The proposed review will consider extending the current two-hour parking limit from 9 am to 12 pm on Saturdays to 9 am to 4 pm on both Saturdays and Sundays. This extension would apply to the Hunter and King Street area, east of Newcastle’s central business district, known for its bustling retail and dining spots.

The Council’s decision is part of a broader effort outlined in the Parking Plan 2021, which seeks to optimise parking turnover to support local businesses. The plan includes a staged review of timed parking restrictions in the area bounded by King Street, Scott Street, Hunter Street, Darby Street, and Pacific Street. The goal is to improve parking availability during weekday evenings, weekends, and public holidays.

Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen highlighted the importance of this review, noting that feedback from local businesses has been crucial. “Supporting local businesses by improving parking turnover in key commercial precincts is a priority. This review is a direct response to the needs of business owners and their customers,” Clausen said.

This initiative follows successful trials in areas like Darby Street, where sensors were installed to monitor parking occupancy and turnover. These sensors, which have been well-received by local businesses, provide data that helps the Council manage parking more effectively and enforce existing time restrictions​.

In addition to the review, the Council’s broader parking strategy includes considerations for extending parking charges in core city centre areas until 7 pm, replacing the previous 5 pm limit. This change aims to manage demand and promote sustainable travel options​.