TICKETLESS parking has been introduced at Westfield Hurstville as part of its $100 million redevelopment.
But retailers who are reluctant to pay $5 a day to park their cars in a dedicated spot are already complaining.
One retailer who runs a business with his wife said parking would cost them about $3600 a year.
‘‘Business has been terrible during the renovation period,’’ the shopkeeper said.
‘‘Not many people came to the centre because parking was a mess.
‘‘The traders can’t believe what is happening, especially those working four-hour shifts on low wages. Two dollars or $3 would have been OK, but not $5.’’
A staff member from another shop said many people were ‘‘cranky and upset’’ over the $5 fee because it was a lot of money, especially for people whose wages were not very high.
Ticketless parking has already been introduced but parking will remain free until November 8.
Shoppers will get the first three hours free but won’t be eligible for another three hours of free parking unless there is a two-hour gap between exit and re-entry.
After that a 3-hour parking stay will cost $5; 4 hours will be $7 and 4 hours will be $10.
An eight-hour stay will cost $40.
The ticketless aspect is expected to make parking easier by eliminating the need for paper tickets and providing an automatic payment option.
Westfield Hurstville centre manager Linda Hurst said the change came with a ‘‘complete ambience improvement’’, including parking guidance to help shoppers to find a spot faster.
‘‘Hurstville is a busy, transport hub,’’ she said.
‘‘We’ve listened to customers and are confident that the upgrade works will improve parking conditions at Westfield Hurstville.’’
HOW IT WORKS
- Upon entry, there will be a digital clock displaying time of entry for shoppers to reference. The system works on a licence plate recognition system with a camera on entry and exit. There will be no boom gate at entry, so shoppers can drive straight into the car park.
- When exiting in under three hours, simply proceed straight to the exit where the boom gate will open automatically.
- If you stay more than three hours, visit a pay station, enter the licence plate number and pay before proceeding to the exit.
To enjoy the full benefits of the new system, shoppers can register at parkwestfield.com.au to receive a free SMS on arrival with entry time and licence plate number. Parking fees can be automatically deducted from a nominated credit card.
Free all day parking will be available for customers with a disability and no fees will apply if entering after 6pm.
Are you happy with the ticketless parking?
