Nose-in parking set to undergo trial in Grafton

Find out what section of Prince Street will be used as part of a larger CBD plan to make Grafton an ‘attractive place’.

Cars parked along Prince St, Grafton

The introduction of nose-in parking has divided community opinion, but Clarence Valley Council will look to trial it next month.

The proposal will go to this week’s full council meeting as part of a proposed Grafton CBD Plan & Transport Strategy due to go on exhibition.

The nose-in parking trial will take place near the corner of Prince Street and Bacon Street, near Heart and Soul Cafe.

Along with the nose-in parking, the footpath in the area will be widened by around 1.2m with temporary timber decking. It will also include an additional seating ‘blister’ in front of the cafe and install planter boxes and large pot plants to improve amenity and as a barrier to vehicles for safety. In addition, bike racks and aesthetic improvements are proposed for the wide central median strip.

The report to council states the site was chosen for the trial as it is a relatively quiet part of Prince Street and there is no line marking for existing on street parking, thus changing to nose in as a trial is easier than elsewhere. In addition the report indicates the parking change would improve accessibility and mobility, that local businesses are supportive of the trial at the location and the site acts as a ‘gateway’ to the CBD from the northern end of Prince Street.

The second trial will take place near the pedestrian crossing adjacent to “The Link” which surveys have shown to be one of the busiest parts of the CBD for pedestrian traffic.

The trail will create a small area for seating, additional greenery and display boards for the project creates a pleasant space for the community.

The footpath will be extended by 2m with timber decking to be constructed off site, and with the use of materials such as astro turf, allow it to be temporary and removable for use in other trials.

The report states that surrounding businesses of the areas earmarked for trials are supportive of both the trials and the improvement of the CBD.

The overarching plan will go on exhibition, with the stated aim of taking a ‘placemaking’ approach to make Grafton a successful regional city, to be a place where people want to spend time to shop, to socialise and to support business.

“The CBD Plan and Transport Strategy is a Council priority to respond in a positive way to the new Motorway bypass and the quicker and safer links to south east Queensland and the rest of NSW,” the report states.

“The new bridge and changed transport routes mean Prince Street will become a Council responsibility, rather than state government, with changes to the road hierarchy and function.

“Council want to realise the potential of Prince Street and the CBD to be a great place for people, rather than just cars.”

Councillors will consider the report in the meeting on Tuesday.