Clarification: Earlier this week we published a story that stated the Shire planned to install paid parking on the Main Street. This was published in error and we apologise for any confusion caused.
The Shire of Augusta Margaret River is considering the introduction of timed, unpaid parking along Bussell Highway in the Margaret River Main Street Precinct, which it says is in response to requests from some local businesses.
Ticket machines are not expected to be installed, with the Shire planning to utilise existing ranger resources to enforce the proposed time limits.
The Shire is calling for business owners and the wider community to have their say on the matter.
Shire Director Sustainable Development and Infrastructure Nick Logan said the aim of timed, unpaid parking was to free up the number of parking bays near shops, and to encourage visitors and employees who are in town for long periods to park on adjacent streets and carparks.
"The Shire is keen to gauge the level of support for this option from both business owners and the wider community," Mr Logan said.
"Timed parking could mean a blanket three-hour time limit in public parking areas throughout the town centre or specifically tailored time limits allowing individual businesses to cater to their customers' requirements, for example, 15-minute parking at the front of chemists and newsagents."
"The important thing at this stage is to get feedback from both local businesses and members of the public, so that we can ensure as far as possible that the decision reflects the needs and wants of the wider community," he said.
Mr Logan said as part of the consultation, the Shire was also seeking public opinion on suitable locations for a permanent and peak hour - Friday and Saturday nights - taxi rank.
"As a town with limited public transport, taxi services provide an invaluable community service and we need to ensure the rank location is easily located with adequate seating and shade for users," Mr Logan said.
Business owners and community members are invited and encouraged to provide their views at yoursay.amrshire.wa.gov.au/parking-on-the-main-street.
Hard copy surveys are also available at the Shire offices in Margaret River.
Feedback will be collated and presented to the Augusta Margaret River Council with a recommendation for or against the inclusion of timed, unpaid parking within the town centre of Margaret River along with proposed locations for taxi ranks.
The consultation process is now open and will close on Monday 7 June 2021.
