Redland City Council will at its next general meeting consider a compromise aimed at resolving the Wellington Point parking impasse.
Council’s City Services Committee today supported a recommendation that a three-month trial of shared parking be conducted.
Mayor Karen Williams said the proposed trial may offer a potential resolution of the Point parking issue that has been simmering for months.
“The recommendation is that Council undertake a trial of shared parking (cars and cars with trailers) along the first row of car trailer unit parking adjacent to the toilet block between 1pm and 10pm and that we review this after three months,” the Mayor said.
“I would hope that boaties, local businesspeople and others who have made Wellington Point one of the most visited places in the city will give this a chance to work.
“My hope is that they will see the trial as a potential way forward in what is a difficult situation for council as we juggle the rights of the thousands of visitors to the Point.”
Division 1 Councillor Wendy Boglary said she supported more efficient utilisation of a limited number of parking spaces to assist the area to be more user-friendly to the variety of users.
“We are endeavoring to strike a balance between the competing interests,” Cr Boglary said.
“The boaties are entitled to a certain number of car parks per ramp and we must ensure they have access to this number.
“We are hoping that in unfavorable boating weather or the quieter times of the day other users can now access these shared car parks. The wind usually increases after lunch, hence the times.
“The proposed trial of the shared use will allow access to more parks by other visitors such as wind surfers who like more blustery conditions for their activities.
“I am not in favor, however, of this access on public holidays and will strive to get support to have this concession included in the motion at the general meeting.
“I will also ensure that compliance action is continued, especially over the weekends and public holidays.
“Boaties are entitled to their car parks and I hope they will be flexible and support the trial so a fair and accurate picture will be achieved at the end of the trial.
“I also hope the proposed new ramp and car/trailer parking area in Williams Street, Cleveland, which will provide approximately 40 new trailer spots, will be an asset to the boating community and relieve some of the pressure at Wellington Point.”