First hour of parking free in the CBD?
Minimum cost of $400,000.00 per year. 40-68% of existing parking in CBD underutilized
Read the proposal and offer your sub by Monday 30 April at
https://www.ccc.govt.nz/the-council/consultations-and-submissions/haveyoursay/show/138
Spokes Sub
Thank you for the opportunity to make a formal submission on the proposal to continue to provide one hour free parking in the central city.
With a projected minimum annual cost to ratepayers of $400,000.00 per anum to provide one hour free parking those who drive receive a significant subsidy which undermines the goal of encouraging active and public transport. Landlords also benefit. Given the very high expenses fairness would have those who use the parking paying for it.
Council informs us that 40-66% of existing car parking in the central city is not utilized. There would appear to be little need to subsidize car parking.
For full assessment of this program it will be necessary to monitor all factors including impacts on congestion, air quality, noise levels, fuel usage, bus patronage etc. Other options would also need to be implemented and assessed such as a free shuttle bus (electric) to and through the inner city and provision of adequate cycle parking.
A study undertaken for the New Zealand Transport Authority found that people who travel to the city by means other than private motor vehicles contribute a far greater proportion to retail spending than was traditionally thought.
Suburban malls pay high rates. They even pay rates on the parking they provide. It is inequitable to have ratepayers subsidizing downtown landlords while malls pay their own way. Council should consider selling existing parking buildings to central city landlords who can then pass on the cost through rents. Just as is done in the suburban malls.
Cycle parking in Christchurch is inadequate. Cycle parking in the central city is often a challenge. Plans for the central city are to encourage walking, cycling and public transport. The lack of cycle parking defeats these plans.
From the Greater Christchurch Travel Demand Management Strategy and Action Plan:
“1. A reduction in the current number of motor vehicle trips made, particularly by private car; and
2. An increase in proportion of trips made using sustainable travel options”
Cycle parking is desperately needed, far cheaper to provide and takes up far less space. $400,000.00 per anum spent on cycle parking would support the culture change sought.
Spokes Canterbury does not support the continuance of this program in its present form as there is little evidence provided by the council that it is actually bringing more people and business into the city.
