Submissions

To: Dunedin City Council
Date: May 2025

Purpose

This submission aims to provide feedback to the Dunedin City Council on the proposed changes to parking in the Bath Street area. DPA's goal is to ensure that parking arrangements, particularly mobility parking, are convenient and accessible for disabled people, thereby enabling them to access the central business district (CBD) and essential services. This contributes to DPA's broader work on systemic change for the equity of disabled people.

Summary of DPA submission

DPA supports the creation of a mobility parking space with a 120-minute limit on the corner of Bath and George Streets. This specific location is deemed beneficial because it enables disabled people to access both streets and is conveniently situated outside the Living Well Resource Centre, which provides information and equipment for disabled customers.

While acknowledging that Bath Street itself is not long enough to accommodate more than one mobility parking space, DPA recommends the creation of additional mobility parking spaces in the Octagon. This would provide disabled people with greater options for parking in the central business district, enhancing their accessibility to the area. This aligns with DPA's advocacy for disabled people to have greater choice and control over their lives and supports.

DPA also expresses support for the creation of a variable parking zone outside Burns House on George Street. This zone would allow cruise ship coaches to park during the cruise season and ordinary vehicles in the off-season, contributing to efficient parking management.

Additionally, the submission supports the placement of an authorised vehicle park. This would facilitate quick deliveries and collections for couriers to nearby businesses without inconveniencing traffic or pedestrians, which DPA views as a positive development contributing to overall accessibility and convenience in the area.

Key Recommendation/Finding:

DPA recommends that more mobility parking spaces be created in the Octagon.

Supporting Statement 1:

This would give disabled people greater options when it comes to parking in the central business district.

Supporting Statement 2:

Bath Street is not long enough to accommodate more than one mobility parking space, necessitating additional spaces elsewhere to meet the increasing need for accessible parking.