Toowoomba, May 28, 2024 – The Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) has taken the first step in amending its parking Subordinate Local Law, with plans to initiate public consultations in the coming weeks.

TRC to Amend Parking Law, Seeks Public Input

Councillor Bill Cahill, who oversees Environmental and Regulatory Services, stated that the Council is in the early stages of a comprehensive statutory process to amend the law. 

This process includes public advertisements and opportunities for community feedback on the proposed changes.

“The proposed amendment aims to increase parking fines to encourage better compliance and ensure equitable access to parking throughout Toowoomba’s CBD,” said Cr Cahill. “For instance, stricter penalties will be enforced for unauthorised parking in disability bays, aligning with State Government guidelines.”

The new penalties are designed to be consistent with those in other local governments and will help cover enforcement costs. 

According to Cr Cahill, the parking policy strives to balance the needs of businesses, residents, and workers while maintaining a cost-recovery model.

“Council values the CBD as a central hub for employment, business, services, and social activities,” Cr Cahill continued. “Enhancing the turnover of parking spaces supports local businesses, customers, and visitors.”

As Toowoomba’s CBD grows, so does the pressure on available parking. However, the Council assures ample parking, particularly in off-street car parks. 

Ongoing reviews of parking management are part of the Toowoomba Region Sustainable Transport Strategy and the Toowoomba City Centre Car Parking Strategy 2019. Recent investments in smart parking technology also aim to make high-demand areas more accessible.

In addition to parking management, the Council is exploring active transport options to reduce car trips in and around the city centre.

The proposed amendments will also update traffic area maps and off-street car park locations to reflect changes since the Subordinate Local Law’s adoption in 2011.

This recommendation was endorsed during the Council’s May Ordinary Meeting.

Public notices regarding the consultation process will be released shortly.

News source and image: Toowoomba Regional Council