ANDREW Barr and Mick Gentleman are inviting Canberrans to share their views on plans to transform parking in the ACT through the implementation of smart parking technologies.

The stated goal is “making it easier for Canberrans to find and pay for parking”.

A public discussion paper, “Smart Parking – transforming parking in the ACT”, is now available on the ACT Government’s Time to Talk website for consultation, which will take place for one month from 6 February to 6 March 2015.

The discussion paper outlines the key features of smart parking technology and also proposes a trial of smart parking technologies in the second half of 2015.

“The ACT Government is committed to urban renewal and ensuring Canberra remains a sustainable and liveable city in the future. As part of this commitment and as our city grows, we are looking at ways we can make parking more convenient, so it is easier for Canberrans to plan their travel and to mix car use with other forms of transport, including buses, cycling or walking. If our city is easier to get around, it is easier to do business,” Andrew said.

“Smart Parking is a system that is able to capture real time information on parking occupancy by using technology such as in-ground sensors. Using smart phone apps and intelligent traffic signs, smart parking systems then guide people to an available parking space. This is turn saves drivers time, reduces traffic congestion and provides a better overall user experience.

“As at December 2014, six per cent of ACT parking users were paying for their parking via an app. This number has grown from two per cent in July 2014, highlighting the increase in demand for digital services in our community, and is one of the reasons why the Smart Parking Enhancement Project is a key component of the ACT Government’s Digital Canberra initiative and the logical next stage in Canberra’s development as a leading digital city.

Minister for Planning Mick Gentleman said the success of smart parking in other jurisdictions both in Australia and around the world is encouraging.

“There are examples from a number of international and Australian cities where smart parking systems have been introduced with success,” Mick said.

“Perth has developed the City of Perth Parking App, which enables road users to view exactly how many bays are available, in real time, across 12 of Perth’s multi-story parking structures in their central business district. The app also provides advice to its users on the best route which takes into account road works.

“Canberra is a smart and connected city, and we are always looking at ways to make our planning more innovative and our infrastructure more transformative, so that the experience of living in Canberra is enjoyable for all our residents.”

“Investments in areas of digital advancement such as smart parking technology are about enhancing our city centres and making it easier for Canberrans and visitors alike to engage with government services. The ACT Government will use the trial as an opportunity to work with the local business community and to test and seek feedback on the technology,” Andrew said.

“Earlier this year, 300 new off-street pay parking machines were rolled out across Canberra with new payment options, including credit card and pay by phone technology. The ACT Government is also currently rolling out CBRfree public Wi-Fi across Canberra’s town centres and commercial precincts.

To read the Smart Parking – transforming parking in the ACT issues paper visit www.timetotalk.act.gov.au/consultations.