UP to eight more parking spaces are will be made available in William Street, which are expected to benefit both motorists and businesses.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
In a matter of days, signage alongside the former Bathurst Ambulance Station will be changed to permit parking for all vehicles.
The idea was pitched to Bathurst Regional Council by traffic committee member councillor Warren Aubin.
"I asked about two months ago, now that the building is not being used, why can't we actually utilise that space for on-street parking?" he said.
"I reckon it's a great idea."
Parking was previously prohibited so as not to impede the emergency vehicles coming and going from the ambulance station, but now that the facility has moved to Commonwealth Street, there is no reason to prevent motorists from parking there.
Cr Aubin said the change would make it easier for people to find parking in that part of the central business district and potentially boost patronage to nearby businesses.
"People are always looking for parking spaces on the street because, as we know, we're creatures of habit who like to park near where we are going," he said.
"It adds to the availability of parking in the CBD, another six to eight spots.
"All the retail shops will just grasp the idea of more people being able to park closer to their shops."
The new spaces will have a one-hour time limit and be monitored by council rangers, in line with what already occurs in William Street.
These will be permanent spaces and won't be impacted by any future use of the old ambulance station building.
Making more space available in William Street is just one way council is looking to maximise parking opportunities in the CBD.
Cr Aubin said increasing the amount of lined parking is another avenue being pursued.
George Street, between Russell and Keppel streets, was the first block in the CBD to have lines added, with marking occurring in 2014.
Lines were then added in Keppel Street, between George and William streets, in January this year.
"We've trialled a few areas in the city with lined parking and it works, so I feel it is time to line all of the CBD," Cr Aubin said.
Lines encourage people to park at both the correct angle and the right distance way from other vehicles, ensuring that the space allocated is used to its full potential.