I have had several discussions with my fellow Councillors and Council staff about commuter parking at our train stations – including at Williams Landing.

These discussions have occurred since late 2016 soon after I was elected.

In August 2011, there was a Ministerial Call-in by the State Government and subsequent approval by them for higher use development in and around the Williams Landing Town Centre.

This makes the opportunity for Council to purchase land for a lower use such as parking rather than office or retail, a very expensive alternative, and also not the best use of the land.

As a major activity centre, close to a train station, well connected by bicycle tracks, and currently have 6 bus routes connecting surrounding suburbs, the council can adjust car parking requirement to proactively encourage alternative modes of travel and build up patronage on public transport, walking and cycling.

And also this is why the state government needs to build a school in Williams Landing so hundreds, if not thousands of families can take public transport or just walk to the school and train station, instead of having to drive a car.

I also note some of the other downsides of buying land for a car park, discussed on pages 10 and 11 of the agenda papers.

Nevertheless, I am glad to see part 4 of the recommendation commit Council to continue strongly advocate the State Government to resolve these issues as I feel reassured that Council will continue to do so until real solutions are delivered to our community. 

I am also pleased that the Council will consider an update to the wider issues of commuter car parking in the next few months through a public Council Meeting.

We also need to recognise the State Government’s role to improve access to public transport.   

I have committed to letting the community know when there are a public report and recommendations released.