Frankston traders fire up over parking chaos in CBD
TRADERS have again unloaded over carparking in central Frankston as Bayside Shopping Centre refuses to budge on demands for more free parking.
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TRADERS have again unloaded over carparking in central Frankston as Bayside Shopping Centre refuses to budge on demands for more free parking.
John Billing, representing traders, told a Frankston Council meeting that business operators were being bombarded with complaints about a lack of parking from shoppers.
Mr Billing described the situation as ridiculous and added that the parking woes were making other shopping precincts at Mornington and Karingal more enticing for customers.
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He also restated traders’ demands for Bayside Shopping Centre to institute a ‘first three hours free’ parking deal similar to other large shopping centres to entice people back.
“If there was an incentive such as a time limit for free parking it would increase patronage in Frankston,” he said.
But Bayside Shopping Centre manager Gabe North-Harney flatly rejected the call.
“We have no plans to change the parking arrangements at Bayside,” she told the Leader.
“Our priority is to provide an easy and convenient parking experience for our customers and retailers.
“Because of our location in the heart of Frankston CBD, alongside the busy transport hub and near the beach and TAFE, we do not have the capacity to provide free parking.”
Council received a petition — backed by traders — signed by 2744 people calling on authorities to sort out the parking mess and for Bayside to provide more free parking.
During debate, Cr Brian Cunial said the council had “no right” to ask Bayside to provide free parking.
“They provide free parking on Sundays. It’s well used,” he said.
Councillors voted to note that multiple meetings had already been held with Bayside Shopping Centre to discuss the parking issue.
They also voted that council CEO Dennis Hovenden meet with Bayside representatives again to lobby for free parking.
Another motion, backed by Cr Steve Toms, calling for residents to be surveyed on whether they would “use and support” Bayside if it had a ‘first three hours free’ parking deal was lost when put to the vote.
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