City increases free motorcycle parking spots

27 November 2008

One hundred and eight new free, untimed motorcycle parking spots will be created in The Rocks in the next few months bringing the total number of free motorcycle and scooter parking spots to more than 800.

City of Sydney Director of City Services Garry Harding said the City's Traffic Committee recently approved the new spots to support the increasing number of people using motorbikes. The increase in untimed free parking spots complements the City's Motorcycle & Scooter Strategy which provides free timed parking across the City of Sydney as part of a 12-month trial.

"Motorcyclists no longer have to pay for street parking and can choose between thousands of timed parking spots and hundreds of untimed spots. Many parking stations also offer discounted all day parking for motorbikes including the Goulburn St and Domain parking stations where it costs $5 to park securely all day," Mr Harding said.

"The City of Sydney is committed to encouraging sustainable transport options including additional public transport, walking and cycling. Motorcycles are an important part of this mix as they can be more efficient than a car and create less congestion which is why we've developed a comprehensive strategy to support their use."

Motorcyclists are now exempt from paying for parking meters in parts of the CBD, Darlinghurst, Surry Hills, Ultimo and Redfern as part of a 12-month trial but must still comply with time restrictions. (Note this does not include the Royal Botanic Gardens, Domain, Centennial Park or other council areas not regulated by City of Sydney).

Under Australian Road Rules all vehicles are prohibited from parking or driving on footpaths to increase safety and ensure vehicles do not block pedestrian access.

As part of the strategy the City will trial onstreet locking devices and charging points to support a trend towards electric scooters.

The City will also advocate for fairer and more equitable tolling arrangements for motorcyclists and advocate for motorcycles and scooters to be included in the Federal Government's Green Vehicle Guide.

For more information and downloadable free motorcycle parking maps go to: www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/transport