Sunbury station carpark design still up in the air

It was touted last year as a multi-level solution to the frustrating, ongoing parking problems in a congested Sunbury. But it may be so much different, with all options now on the table.

Parking in streets around Sunbury is a major issue in the town.

Sunbury may not get an extra level on its existing railway station carpark to cater for a promised 300 extra spaces after all.

Despite Sunbury state MP Josh Bull a nnouncing last August the spaces would be added by extending the existing deck and adding another level, Sunbury Leader understands it is now only one of the options on the table.

The parking project is part of a $60 million State Government plan to put new carparks at metropolitan stations.

Government spokesman Joel Dwyer could only confirm the project — on the site near Woolworths, Reading Cinemas and Big W — was in the “planning and design phase”.

“The government continues to assess ways to expand commuter carparking throughout the precinct,” he said.

An artist’s rendition provided to Sunbury Leader last year showed a multi-storey car park with accessible spaces, secure storage facilities and better pedestrian access.

The lack of parking in Sunbury continues to cause headaches for local businesses, with congested streets and limited spaces long causing problems for commuters and shoppers alike.

Glenn Ingram wants to see more parking around Sunbury.

Sunbury businessman Glenn Ingram said the pressure on the town’s parking was disproportionate to its population as it also serviced shoppers and commuters from the Macedon Ranges.

“On the one hand it provides extra business opportunities and on the other it turns business opportunities away,” he said.

Sunbury state Labor MP Josh Bull said the government was working with stakeholders to deliver the 300 new spaces.

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“The detailed design and full scope of the project will be released in coming months and we expect to start construction by the end of this year,” he said.

“We are committed to delivering the best outcome for Sunbury residents and are committed to getting this done.”

An artist’s impression released to the Leader last year showing a proposed multi-deck Sunbury station carpark on the existing site.

Mr Ingram said the lack of parking made the struggle for businesses so much harder.

“The average duration of stay is just over an hour, while the average commuter stay is closer to nine hours,” Mr Ingram said.

“For every rail commuter who is using a space that should be for business, the retail sector is deprived of nine visitation opportunities.”