95bFM Auckland Council wants to reduce roadside parking — could it make our roads more efficient?
1 April, 2022
Interview by Casper McGuire, adapted by Jessica Hopkins
Auckland Councillor Shane Henderson says Tāmaki Makaurau needs to look carefully at the environmental impact of private vehicle trips. Photo: Unsplash.
The Auckland Council and Auckland Transport are currently reviewing its parking strategy.
The council's draft plan, which is currently up for public consulation, could remove roadside parking on dozens of main roads and introduce fees for park-and-ride facilities.
The last time Tāmaki Makaurau's parking strategy was revisted was in 2015, which responded to increased public demand for on-street parking as the city grew.
But Auckland Councillor Shane Henderson told Casper McGuire on 95bFM's The Wire that reducing private vehicle trips and on-road parking in densely populated areas will mean we can use our roads more efficiently.
Henderson assured that there will still be parking throughout the central city for people who need it. But he says this system will reduce traffic congestion and benefit people who have to drive.
"We are not trying to kick anyone out of their car, but we want people to have more options to decide on the best mode of transport for them. Sometimes that will be a private car, especially if they are someone with mobility issues, but for some, it will be public transport, which we are aiming to encourage."
Henderson said we need to look carefully at the environmental impact of private vehicle trips and ensure our parking strategy meet Tāmaki Makaurau's changing needs.
"43% of our region's greenhouse gas emissions are through transport use. Our transport system faces many challenges, including a growing population, climate change, and legislative changes. Land use needs to be more efficient in a world where climate change is a huge concern, and where there is more housing and demand for space."
Henderson encouraged people to have their say on the council's new parking plan.
"We really want to hear how parking affects people in different parts of Auckland so we as decision-makers can read that feedback and act accordingly."
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