Parking meters placed on hold

Residents hoping for a swift resolution of parking congestion may find themselves dismayed.

According to a recent agenda of the Executive Committee (Exco), the tender for establishment of a new parking meter system for Newcastle must be re-advertised. This means parking woes in the CBD in particular, will most likely persist until next year.

The mayor, Afzul Rehman said the previous company who had been shortlisted for the tender had not provided the municipality a ‘viable long-term solution’.

“We are looking at other towns and may use their companies as well,” he added.

The news comes as a blow to businesses, particularly the president of Newcastle Chamber of Commerce, Johnny Clark. He said despite being led to believe the new system was to be installed early last year, and amid promises this would be a ‘benchmark system’, the news of a re-advertised tender was a disappointment.

“Our members are being inconvenienced by shop owners using vacant bays. There is a tendency to use bays in front of a shop even though it is earmarked for offloading.”

Mr Clark said a lack of traffic control due to no parking meters, had caused much frustration. Referring to the potential income the municipality was losing through not having parking meters, he said the turmoil of the situation meant businesses were restricted.

“This has many implications on us helping businesses thrive.”

Mr Clark said he was seeking ways to expedite the implementation of a parking meter system, believing this development would be for the benefit of all motorists. Such restrictions, he continued, could cause residents to lose confidence in the municipality.

“It is sad to not be informed of these kind of issues. It really is a pity.”