Clayton traders are all for the plans to use the land under sky rail but insit more carparking is needed

TRADERS in Clayton are calling for car parking to replace parkland proposed for the open space created by the sky rail, saying it could secure the future of the suburb.

Traders Chris Zervas, Clayton Association President Frank Golotta, Barbara Snell and Con Stefanidis want carparking under the sky rail Picture: Lawrence Pinder

TRADERS in Clayton are calling for car parking to replace parkland proposed for the open space created by the sky rail, saying it could secure the future of the suburb.

The Clayton Traders Association are excited about the Level Crossing Removal Authority’s plans to reinvigorate Clayton by making the most of the land underneath the elevated tracks, but believe there is a “desperate need” for more parking for their customers.

The association’s president and Clayton Hotel owner Frank Golotta has urged the authority to consider at least using some of the land along Clayton Rd for parking.

“I worry that people are getting carried away with the pretty pictures of things like skateboard ramps and rock climbing areas,” Mr Golotta said.

“But this is adjacent to a busy retail centre and it’s only going to get busier, and no one seems to be thinking about the car parking solution.

“We think there can be a happy medium.”

Mr Golotta said the parking shortage was holding Clayton back.

“Fix the car parking and they will come, that’s our view,” he said.

Monash Mayor Rebecca Paterson agreed parking could be part of the open space project, but should not be the sole focus.

Cr Paterson said a council survey backed its proposal for an open community area, a shared pedestrian and bike path, urban playspaces, informal sports areas, gardens and station car parking.

She said the council was pushing for a further 80 car parking spaces at the western side of Clayton Rd.

The authority’s project director Brett Summers said consultation from people in March showed the top desires for the use of the open space were commuter parking (as opposed to parking for shoppers), green parks, community gardens and playgrounds.

“It’s about trying to find that balance between green open space, plus car parking and playgrounds to get the right mix,” Mr Summers said.

The consultation period for the open space project is still open and you can find a survey at your.levelcrossings.vic.gov.au/public-open-space

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