THE days of unrestricted all-day parking for workers in Cleveland’s central business district appear to be ending after Redland City Council voted to begin the process of regulating the rear car park at Woolworths Cleveland.
Councillors voted to initiate a review of local laws allowing the rear car park at 67-101 Middle St to be added to the list of regulated off-street parking areas.
This follows a formal request from Haben Group, the owner of Stockland Cleveland, for Council to manage parking compliance.
For years, the centrally located car park has been used freely by workers from nearby shops, restaurants, and offices – often for the entire working day.
However, with pressure mounting to increase vehicle turnover and improve access for shoppers and short-term visitors, regulation in the form of time limits, permits, or fines could soon be introduced.
While the motion passed, councillors were divided on the issue.
Cr Peter Mitchell supported the move, saying the process would bring much-needed clarity for both businesses and visitors.
“I’m happy for this to proceed and for us to start the local law-making process,” Cr Mitchell said.
“Hopefully, the process we’re initiating now will give everyone more clarity and confidence moving forward.”
However, Cr Paul Bishop raised concerns about the broader implications of Council enforcing parking rules on private commercial land.
“There’s been a suggestion that this is simply the normal order of business – a continuation of usual process. I don’t share that view,” Cr Bishop said.
“This raises concerns for me.
“It appears we may be heading down a new path – managing and regulating areas that are privately owned commercial properties.
“In my view, this is not part of our ordinary business.
“It’s a change in direction that deserves closer scrutiny.”
Cr Rowanne McKenzie responded by pointing out that such arrangements are not unprecedented and are initiated by private owners – not driven by Council or ratepayers.
“It’s not unusual for us to engage in these types of agreements with private property owners – it has happened before,” she said.
“These requests are initiated by the property owners, and regulated parking is a service we can provide at no cost to ratepayers.
“Importantly, we will be going out to public consultation – not on whether we enter into an MOU, but on the proposed lawmaking itself.”
Should the changes be approved following community consultation, Council officers would be authorised to enforce parking restrictions under a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the property owner.
The MOU would see the property owner remain responsible for signage, site maintenance, and marketing, while Council would be able to issue infringements and retain any revenue from fines.
Council already manages three similar agreements – at Weinam Creek, Stradbroke Ferries (Dunwich), and on state-owned roads in partnership with the Queensland Government.
Council has pledged to clearly communicate any changes to parking arrangements and manage the transition in a way that balances the needs of local businesses, workers, and shoppers.
