Parking at Macarthur Square has been freed up since paid parking was introduced

It’s a sight that would shock many regular customers of Macarthur Square.

• Campbelltown’s almost $1 million property
• Rail ‘should connect to airport from day one’

It’s a sight that would shock many regular customers of Macarthur Square.

Finding a park at the region’s largest shopping centre was almost as frustrating as peak hour on Narellan Rd.

Unused parking spaces at the car park under Macarthur Square.

But since the introduction of the centre’s new paid ‘Smart Park’ system, parking spaces have been plentiful. Macarthur Square centre manager Pedro Araujo said the new parking system had relieved the pressure on the centre’s parking. “Since the launch of Smart Park, there has been more car spaces available for our customers,” he said. “As with the introduction of any new technology, we are closely monitoring the rollout.

“We encourage customers to reach out to the car park ambassadors who are on hand to help customers at pay stations and roaming throughout the centre to assist with queries about validations and exit and entry.”

Rajneet Lal and Rebecca Richards demonstrate the new pay stations. Picture: Ian Svegovic

Mr Araujo reminded people to remember their numberplate when going to the pay machine as the plate acts as the ticket. “Also if you are unsure if you are within the three hours free period, just stop at one of the pay machines on your way out.

Parking at Macarthur Square several years ago.

“The pay machines will be able to tell you if a fee has been incurred.”

Reaction on the Macarthur Chronicle’s Facebook page to the start of paid parking has been mixed. Some have praised the move for freeing up space and for the first three hours being free.

However, staff at the centre’s various stores have been unhappy at having to fork out for the day of work.