Simpson calls for solutions not buck-passing over parking

PARKING WOES are hurting workers and residents alike in Maroochydore with the issue heating up.

Member for Maroochydore Fiona Simpson called for an urgent meeting with local and state government representatives to work out solutions to the parking problems facing workers in central Maroochydore after Council moved to cancel all-day permits in Cornmeal Parade parking lot.

"The parking situation in Maroochydore has worsened since the opening of the new state government building in First Avenue which was built 64 car parks short. The double whammy is Council is now withdrawing staff permits for all-day parking in the Cornmeal Parade Car Park. This car park, originally owned by the State Government before being sold to council, was always supposed to service staff and public parking needs," Ms Simpson said.

Ms Simpson said she had called the meeting to stop the buck passing between the State Government and Council and to help agree on solutions. She said it was critical that an audit was undertaken of the travel requirements of workers in the precinct so better solutions could be tailored.

"People get angry when told to take a bus, take a hike or take a bike when it isn't always practical," Ms Simpson said.

"Public Works Minister Simon Finn is still defending his Government's decision to short change workers' in the new building. (*see attached letter)

"With respect to the Minister, I have to ask if he knows where the workers live and whether it is practical in a region the size of the Sunshine Coast to tell them to bike, hike or bus?

"Or does he expect them to sell their homes and shift near a bus stop for a service which was shut down for three weeks earlier this year and is plagued with a lack of frequency and lengthy travel times."

"It's not good enough for the State Government or Council to dictate their preferred solution to people without listening to them."

With 2-3 hour parking restrictions in place at the Plaza and Big Top car parks, the only all day parking available for staff is in the open-air car park at the back of Myer in the Plaza.

Staff are being encouraged to use alternative methods of transport such as bicycles and public transport, but with limited options available, staff are forced to park in neighbouring streets from First to Third Avenue, which is causing problems for local residents. 

"We need urgent action now," Ms Simpson said.

"I call on state and local government representatives to get together to work out an integrated response to this situation." 

"We need agreements in place for further long term car parking and more public transport solutions".

* Minister Finn's response