Cars a la carte

By Melissa Grant
COUNCILLORS have given plans for a large restaurant in Pakenham the tick of approval amid concerns about lack of parking in the town.
The decision has outraged the Pakenham Business Group (PBG) which has been lobbying the council to improve parking in the central business district.
On Monday night, civic leaders voted four to three to allow a restaurant to be developed at a John Street building, which was originally intended for retail use, despite a reduction in car parking.
The proposal is 35 car spaces short for evening trade but most councillors were confident nearby off-site car parking would make up for the shortfall.
PBG vice president Michael Porter said it was disappointing that councillors had abandoned their strong stance on parking.
“It reverses everything that the shire policy has about parking,” he said.
“It sets a dangerous precedent.”
Central Ward councillor Brett Owen unsuccessfully tried to pass a motion to reduce the restaurant’s night-time seating from 180 to 100.
He said there would be a massive demand on parking, particularly at night, as residents flocked to the restaurant.
“There’s more of a demand on parking at night because people are going to that destination.”
Cr Owen said it wasn’t right to allow so many customers to park away from the restaurant.
“Here we’re saying this business can put all the demands of its customers on other people,” he said.
Mayor Bill Ronald agreed saying it was outrageous to give big businesses permits which didn’t provide enough parking.
“I have never had anyone mention to me there are plenty of car parks in Pakenham… that is the bottom line,” he said.
However, Central Ward councillor Kate Lempriere, who voted in favour of the original motion, said the restaurant would be good for Pakenham.
“A modern restaurant in the heart of Pakenham is something that I do encourage,” she said.
Cr Lempriere said residents would benefit from the vibrant atmosphere and employment the restaurant would create.
Mr Porter said the business group was all for expansion of the town but not at the expense of car parking.
“I’ve spoken to businesses in the area and they are fuming,” he said.
“They (councillors) finally took a stand on parking and where is that policy now?”
PBG president Sue Day echoed Mr Porter’s comments.
“Council really has to be strict when it comes to this. We need more parking spaces to get more people into town shopping.”