07/04/2005

Oto council plans to discourage lengthy parkers

Drivers in Otorohanga may have to pay more attention to where they park their cars due to possible changes to the parking layout.
The issue of parking was discussed during an Otorohanga Community Board meeting on March 14 after recommendations to change aspects of the town's parking map were put forward by Otorohanga Business Association.
Council engineering manager Ian Gooden advised the board - based on the business association's recommendations - that the whole of Maniapoto St be 60 minute restricted parking, while areas such as outside the video shop on Tuhoro St be reduced from 120 minutes down to 60 or 30 minute parking.
The board agreed that the parking limit outside the video shop should be restricted to 30 minutes.
Mr Gooden said by shortening the length of parking restrictions in the CBD, it would have the desired effect of pushing long-term parking out of the area.
He also suggested that additional and larger parking signs be installed around the town, particularly behind the CBD.
Mayor Dale Williams said he felt regular enforcement of the parking restrictions should be carried out two or three times a year to encourage people to follow regulations.
The board also discussed the issue of vehicles illegally parking on yellow lines with Mr Gooden suggesting that kerb extensions be installed.
The board will now prepare a report on the proposal and invite representatives of the business association to attend their next meeting on April 11 to discuss the issue further.