To tackle the perennial issues of traffic congestion and parking shortages near the iconic Bondi Beach, shorter parking limits are being proposed for visitors. While aiming to alleviate the plight of local residents, the move could pose fresh challenges for those seeking a day at the beach.
Waverley Council intends to expand the existing Resident Parking Scheme in the vicinity of Bondi Beach and enforce a two-hour parking restriction for non-residents. Per Mayor Paula Masselos, the proposal aims to “strike a balance between the parking demands of residents and visitors” to Bondi Beach.
Parking issues in this area have long been a contentious topic. Over the past year, Waverley Councillor Leon Goltsman, representing the Bondi ward, has fielded complaints from hundreds of locals regarding on-street parking problems.
Regarding potential solutions, Cr Goltsman acknowledged the diverse range of opinions but stressed the consistent desire of residents to have their voices heard. He also highlighted the challenge posed by Waverley’s status as one of Australia’s most densely populated local government areas, experiencing demand for parking that often surpasses supply, particularly during peak times.
Whilst Waverley Council has a vision of reducing car travel reliance through initiatives like the Bondi Junction Cycleway, which opened in February 2023, Cr. Goltsman expressed reservations. He noted a reduction in public street parking in recent years, with spaces being repurposed for car-sharing zones, parklets, and expanded sidewalks. Although these changes have some advantages, they contribute to the difficulty of finding parking.
Cr Goltsman also acknowledged concerns that altered parking rules might deter lower-income residents from visiting the glamorous Bondi area. He emphasized the importance of maintaining Bondi’s welcoming reputation and considered the visitor experience holistically. He expressed concern that shorter time limits, coupled with the high cost of parking near Bondi Beach, could overshadow an otherwise joyful day at the beach.
Parking around Bondi Beach is notoriously pricey, with some sections charging as much as $10 per hour – exceeding the costs in Sydney’s CBD. Additionally, the privatization of bus services in the Eastern Suburbs has limited public transport accessibility in the region.
Council, along with the NSW Police and Transport for NSW, is currently reviewing the feedback received during the public consultation for its Resident Parking Scheme (RPS), which closed in September 2023.
Published 6-Oct-2023
