Public consultation for digital parking rollout in central Geelong

THE City of Greater Geelong is seeking feedback on its plan to shift parking in central Geelong to a fully digital system in November.

With 85 per cent of drivers now paying with card or online, the council has decided to make the change.

The council says the transition to a cashless system will enable better utilisation of ratepayer money, with the current cash collection and machine services costing more than $250,000 each year.

Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj said the council was eager to hear from the community about the proposed shift.

“The City reviewed our current parking system and identified clever and creative ways to improve machine reliability for drivers, reduce costs, and optimise productivity.

“We’ve seen a steady decline in coin payments at the meter with customers preferring to pay via credit/debit card or EasyPark app.

“Have a think about digital-only payments at parking meters and what the positives or challenges for drivers might be.”

Deputy mayor Ron Nelson said only a small proportion of drivers, about 15 per cent, still use coins to pay for parking, mostly for short-term stays.

“With this in mind, there is no need to use coins when accessing free two-hour parking sessions in all 2P on-street spaces,” he said.

“Please share your thoughts on this plan and how it will impact you, particularly if you’re part of the 15 per cent who use coins.”

Payment options will include credit/debit cards at parking meters and online payments through the EasyPark app, which the City says will give drivers more control over their stay and ensures they don’t pay for unused time. Digital payment receipts will be available.

Feedback can be made before October 15 via yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au/digital-parking