New system to revolutionise parking

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council has installed an innovative new parking system in the Port Macquarie CBD which is set to revolutionise parking management.

Electro-magnetic vehicle overstay detection systems, which operate via an in-ground unit embedded beneath parking spots have been installed in time limited spaces along Horton and Hay Streets, Port Macquarie. Highly visible signage at all locations will explain that the systems are in use.

Council's Director of Development and Environment, Matt Rogers, "The availability of parking in the Port Macquarie CBD was becoming an increasingly important issue in the community.

"Council acknowledges the importance of ensuring a constant turnover of parking spaces in time restricted parking areas. This provides more cars with a share of the available spaces, which in turns encourages people to shop locally. Council has met with the Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce to discuss the implementation of the technology and the Chamber  fully supports the trial.

"Observations and comments from the community have also indicated that customers want to park as close to shops as possible and the detection systems will help in freeing up parking spaces. Anecdotal evidence has also shown that some members of the community are using time restricted spots for all day parking, which Council has a responsibility to discourage," said Mr Rogers.