26 August 2005

Heritage building residents benefit from parking scheme change

Residents of heritage, multi-unit dwellings will benefit from relaxed resident parking scheme eligibility, following last night’s Auckland City Council meeting.

The council manages resident parking schemes in areas where there is high demand for parking. Most schemes exempt permit-holders from parking time restrictions – such as P120 - in specified areas.

“As Auckland continues to grow as an international city, managing parking becomes a balancing act to ensure on-street space is optimised for the people competing for use of it,” says Councillor Richard Simpson, chairperson of the Transport and Urban Linkages Committee, which recommended the policy change.

“Managing parking in Auckland’s central suburbs is also one way of encouraging commuters to adopt sustainable travel alternatives, such as public transport.”

Residents of heritage, multi-unit dwellings or heritage apartments in conservation areas, as noted in the council’s district plan, will now be able to apply for and renew resident parking permits in areas where the schemes exist.

“Purpose-built heritage apartment buildings form a special part of Auckland’s history,” says Mr Simpson.

“Many pre-date the car, and were designed with a different Auckland in mind. They are important in defining the unique character of many of the city’s streets.

“Relaxing eligibility for resident parking schemes aims to ensure this character is protected, and not compromised by the need to provide off-street parking.”

The revised criteria for heritage building residents is aligned with Auckland City’s preference to provide parking time restriction exemptions for residents, in recognition that car parks have different uses at different times of the day. It also reflects the council’s commitment to protecting Auckland’s heritage.

“Resident parking schemes are there to give residents a better opportunity to find a car park in areas where parking is at a premium – they don’t guarantee a parking space,” says Mr Simpson.

“Parking permits are just one option for residents, but the revised policy is a signal that the schemes are flexible as the city grows and develops.”

Auckland City will write to current permit holders over the next week to explain the new criteria, and how this will be managed.

ENDS

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