Parking complaints top North Sydney Council survey

NORTH Sydney Council is not surprised parking is the biggest gripe among residents because of the high demand for spaces.

Researchers quizzed residents on their views. Picture: Phillip Rogers

• North Sydney Council taking action on parking
• Celtic festival ditched on Australia Day
• Dogs ‘eating’ soil at Crows Nest graveyard
• Secret Garden secured with lease

THE biggest gripe among North Sydney residents has been revealed: parking.

Researchers quizzed locals on what they thought were council’s leading service problems.

The provision of parking came out tops, with 57 per cent of people dissatisfied.

“Parking has been an issue of concern for North Sydney residents in every survey since 2004,” a council spokeswoman said.

“This is not surprising given North Sydney’s growing population, increase in car ownership and demand for commuter and visitor parking.

“We understand our community’s frustration with this issue. Unfortunately, demand outstrips supply and the only equitable way to balance access to parking is by enforcing time restrictions.”

Residents complained there simply was not enough parking, they could not park outside their house and there were too many meters.

Other top-five grumbles also focused on traffic and roads. Residents were unhappy with traffic congestion, pedestrian and cycle paths, maintenance of roads and policing of parking.

Residents told the survey policing of parking was revenue raising rather than consideration for the community, that parking was overpoliced and they were being fined when overstaying by only five minutes. Other people complained about illegal parking.

But it wasn’t all negative feedback. More than 84 per cent were happy with the services the council provided.

Particular high notes were the maintenance of parks, waste and recycling collection, recreation facilities and cleanliness of footpaths.

“Council is very pleased with the results, which show North Sydney is one of the best-performing councils in NSW,” the spokeswoman said.

Visit the Mosman Daily’s new website.