SIMON Corbell says that following consultation on the draft Environmental Impact Statement for Capital Metro the ACT Government has decided it will only allow up to 50 percent of the Magistrates Court car park on London Circuit to be used as a construction compound during the construction of stage one of Canberra’s light rail network.

“The government was in discussions with City businesses and other stakeholders on options to ensure the amount of parking in and near the Magistrates Court car park is maintained or increased at or above its current level of about 255 spaces during the construction period,” Simon said.

“In response to issues raised during consultation we have worked hard to identify options that reduce the possible area of the car park used for the compound and to provide additional parking supply.

“As a result the government has decided that the consortia that wins the contract to build stage one of Canberra’s light rail network will only be allowed to use half of the existing car park.

“The government is also proposing two options to maintain, or possibly increase, the current level of parking by either creating additional surface car parking through the reconfiguration of the Magistrates Court and Theatre car parks, as well as the creation of a temporary overflow car park off Theatre Lane, or through construction of a temporary parking structure on the remaining section of the Magistrates Court car park.”

“The two options could increase current parking levels by up to about 40 additional car spaces. The options will also vary in terms of how long they will take to be implemented.

“I can also confirm that the existing number of designated disabled parking spaces will be maintained in the area.

“Capital Metro Agency’s place managers have been talking with key stakeholders, including tenants of the Melbourne and Sydney Buildings, to seek their opinions on these proposed parking options.

“Following this consultation the ACT Government will make a final decision on the preferred option.

For more information visit capitalmetro.act.gov.au.