MEDIA RELEASE 25 July 2008

Council enhances car park to meet needs of local businesses

The Christchurch City Council has made a number of improvements at its Manchester Street car parking building, and local business owners are expressing their appreciation.

Ron Hooker and Todd Flygenring of the New Regent Street Business Association recently met with Hagley/Ferrymead Community Engagement Adviser Karen Wason and Parking Team Leader Karen Scott to discuss issues local businesses had with parking in the area.

As a result of these meetings, the Council agreed to undertake some maintenance work on the building. In addition to cleaning and painting, repairs were made to the structural concrete and metal railings. Community notice boards and baby changing facilities were also added, and new signage was installed.

"The Manchester Street Car Park now looks really great," says Mr Hooker. "Well done with neat colours and a good tidy up."

Also as part of the agreement, free parking is now available at the building on Saturdays from 9am-11.45pm and Sundays from 9am-5.45pm. The free weekend parking is in addition to the one hour of free parking offered during the week.

Mr Hooker appreciated the Council's willingness to accommodate the needs of local businesses and their customers.

"The City Council does listen to suggestions and kindly agreed to extend the Manchester Park free Saturday night late parking until 11.45pm, which is great for late night shoppers and those eating out or going to the theatre."

Ms Scott also welcomed the opportunity to work with the local business people to enhance the experience of those who come to this historic street.

"This project has been an excellent example of the Council and a city business association working together as one team to come up with a result that has improved the image and service offered to residents and visitors of this car park.

"Because of the positive commitment Mr Hooker and Mr Flygenring brought to the project, we were able to bring about a result that both parties were happy with."

ends

© Scoop Media