DARBY Street parking will extend past the existing one-hour limits in a move City of Newcastle says has answered a call from traders.
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Two-hour unmetered limits will come into effect between Bull and Queen Streets from this week between 9am and 7pm, the council announced on Tuesday.
Limits on Sunday will run for four hours between 9am and 4pm. The council said introducing a time limit on the traditionally quieter day was designed to turn over visitors to the eat street.
The Newcastle Herald reported in July that a survey had indicated Darby Street trade had fallen by 30 per cent amid the light rail construction and ongoing development of the inner city.
It led to the formation of Makers and Traders of Newcastle City, a group of more than 50 shop owners seeking to reactivate the city and stem business closures.
Makers and Traders of Newcastle City representative Tim McPhee said on Tuesday that businesses in Darby Street appreciated the parking changes.
"The Darby Street business community went to council and asked for help with the time limits for parking - to be extended from one to two hours and also to make it consistent," Mr McPhee said.
"City of Newcastle have been fantastic and worked closely with us to make sure it is easier for visitors to spend more time exploring the ever-many wonderful stores and eating places on Darby Street."
David Clarke, the council's governance director, said the alterations would also benefit those visiting Darby Street.
"We consulted with businesses in the area to develop this plan to streamline parking zones, responding to traders' preference for a two-hour parking limit," Mr Clarke said.
"Darby Street is an icon of the city's retail and hospitality economy, so it's important that we get the balance right in a rapidly changing city environment.
"We believe these revised parking arrangements will be welcomed by both consumers and businesses.
"Shoppers and diners can enjoy the strip's relaxing, social atmosphere for longer while providing businesses with the opportunity to benefit from their increased stay."
Motorcycle parking will be shifted south, away from outdoor dining areas. City of Newcastle will consider additional spaces in Council Street.
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Matt Carr
Matt began his Newcastle Herald career as a cadet in 2009. He is a Walkley nominated reporter who has covered councils, police and general news rounds across the Upper Hunter, Port Stephens, Maitland, Lake Macquarie, Cessnock and Newcastle. Now his focus is on digital storytelling and breaking news.
Matt began his Newcastle Herald career as a cadet in 2009. He is a Walkley nominated reporter who has covered councils, police and general news rounds across the Upper Hunter, Port Stephens, Maitland, Lake Macquarie, Cessnock and Newcastle. Now his focus is on digital storytelling and breaking news.
