Central Coast Council is asking the community to take part in a survey to determine ways to provide medium to long term parking solutions for the growing population on the coast.

As part of the Community Strategic Plan, the community identified parking in town centres, tourist hubs and commuter areas as important issues to be addressed as Council and its partners work together to shape the future of the Central Coast.

Acting Director, Assets, Infrastructure and Business, Boris Bolgoff said the creation of car parking options and solutions that address the needs for residents, visitor’s and businesses was the key to delivering essential infrastructure for our growing region.

“Council is aware that there are a number of pinch points for parking across the Central Coast including town centres in Gosford, Wyong, The Entrance, Woy Woy and Terrigal and commuter parking at Warnervale, Tuggerah, Wyong, Lisarow and Woy Woy,” Mr Bolgoff said.

“This survey is the first step in capturing information from the community about the types of parking they need to be able to go about their business on the Central Coast. Are they seeking parking for longer periods whilst they are at work or conduct business, or are they seeking parking for shorter periods of time whilst they attend personal appointments, enjoy leisure activities or dine out?

“As our town centres grow, we also have more residents competing for parking close to their homes that we need to plan for,” he said.

With the Central Coast forecast to grow to over 415,000 people by 2036, the development of mid to longer term parking solutions needs to be addressed as part of a bigger picture of how people move around the Central Coast.

“As well as asking the community about parking needs in specific areas, the survey will seek information on how improved public transport could impact the community and enable people to have a variety of travel options so they could leave the car at home,” Mr Bolgoff said.

“Council can then take this information to public transport operators including the State Government and work together to deliver the best transport outcomes for the region.”

Council is addressing parking in and around the Gosford City Centre, including commuter parking, as a separate high priority project as this will be impacted by future State Government decisions as part of the revitalisation of Gosford.

The Central Coast Regional Parking survey will open for one month from Wednesday 7 November. Following this, a draft strategy will be developed and go on public exhibition in 2019. To complete the survey, go to www.yourvoiceourcoast.com/parking