The Dunedin District Council (DCC) is proposing changes to 60 parks on the student-riddled street of Harbour Terrace. According to the DCC, these changes will occur in two places: “the block between Union Street and St David Street; and the block between St David Street and Dundas Street.” Imagine getting towed every day from now until eternity. It’s safe to say students are pissed at the news.
According to the DCC site, “approximately 60 unrestricted car parks are proposed to be converted to P240 parks, providing free parking with a time restriction of 240 minutes.” You may be thinking something along the lines of, “What the fuck, why?” The DCC asserts that the changes will “increase the turnover and availability of parking, providing better access to nearby sports facilities, benefiting students and other visitors in the area.” The changes are thought to affect what has been traditionally used as day-time parking for student flats along Harbour Terrace.
When asked for comment on the proposals and what would be done to mitigate a greater squeeze on already limited unrestricted parking for students, the DCC told Critic Te Ārohi that “we have received numerous requests from members of the public, including sports groups, to reassess parking arrangements in the area. The change would support people using hockey turfs, cricket ovals, tennis courts, football and rugby pitches, and the nearby Caledonian athletics ground, all located in the area.”
The DCC went on to comment that “it’s important to note the proposal would not result in the removal of any parking spaces on Harbour Terrace, and students – like other members of the public – will continue to be able to use them free [of] charge within the new time restrictions.”
Two students Critic approached, Chloë and Stella, pointed out that Logan Park already has a “heap” of designated parks within the grounds. “I don’t think that’s fair,” Stella mused. “If they wanna [increase turnover], change the spaces within Logan Park to P240 […] Leave the spaces by the houses for the actual residents that live there.”
Other students on campus commented: “It is really really hard to find places to park. I think saying that students will be able to use them isn’t realistic, you’ll have to move every few hours – it’s impractical. Not much thought has been given to residents. Creating a shortage for one demographic isn’t really the answer.” They felt that the DCC should switch their focus to creating more car parks instead of restricting their use. “We also have massive stadium parking. [The DCC] could negotiate using that.”
The DCC will be accepting submissions and undergoing consultation regarding the proposal, telling Critic Te Ārohi, “We welcome submissions from anyone who would like to share their view, including students and any other residents in the area.” Students can submit their opinion on the Harbour Terrace parking changes via the DCC’s website. Submissions close on the 14th of August 2024.