Concerns are rising among shoppers at the Clyde Shopping Centre regarding parking difficulties caused by ongoing construction works. The development, located at the intersection of Berwick-Cranbourne Road and Morison Road, has led to the closure of several parking spaces, creating significant challenges for visitors during peak hours.
The construction site is not only affecting the shopping centre but also includes additional works behind the medical centre across the road. As a result, many shoppers are finding it increasingly difficult to secure a parking spot, prompting some to circle the parking lot and surrounding residential areas in search of available spaces.
Local resident Linda Dyer shared her recent experience, stating, “I came down last Wednesday, and I couldn’t even get a parking space on the surrounding streets. In the end, I had to go elsewhere.” Dyer expressed concern that local businesses, which rely on foot traffic, are suffering as shoppers opt for alternative locations.
Other frequent visitors, like Marie, the owner of One Stop Variety in the shopping centre, echoed Dyer’s sentiments. Marie noted that parking challenges existed even before construction began, stating, “Even before that, there was not as much because the area is growing.” She highlighted the increasing population due to new housing developments in the area.
Meanwhile, Anthony Tassone, co-proprietor of TerryWhiteChemmart pharmacy at the centre, acknowledged the parking difficulties. He explained that the construction has led to a temporary closure of some parking areas, coupled with increased demand from workers and tradespeople on site. “We understand there are challenges with car parking at Shopping on Clyde due to the construction works around,” Tassone said.
To alleviate the situation, Tassone mentioned that parking is available at the medical centre on weekends for customers facing difficulty finding a space. He added that staff members are making efforts to optimize parking availability for shoppers and expressed hope that conditions will improve once the construction of the aged care facility is complete, anticipated by November 2023.
Despite these efforts, Dyer remains skeptical about the long-term parking situation. “Gym members will want to park for about an hour, and tavern patrons will want to park for two to three hours,” she noted, suggesting that the only viable solution would be the construction of a multi-storey car park.
Centre manager Ian Mitchell provided insight into the overall development plans. He confirmed that the new building aims to enhance the centre’s offerings and is set to include facilities such as a gym, sports bar, juice kiosk, and restaurant. “The plans included professional services input on traffic flow and parking requirements, which were then endorsed by the Council,” Mitchell stated. He emphasized that although the current parking situation is challenging, adjustments are being made to improve accessibility.
Mitchell highlighted that approximately 30 percent of the cars in the main car park were parked all day, often not belonging to customers. He mentioned ongoing efforts to encourage these vehicles to use alternative parking areas and stated, “We appreciate that it takes time for such adjustments, but have found that it is starting to work.”
As the Clyde Shopping Centre continues to evolve, local businesses and shoppers alike are hopeful that the completion of the construction will bring improved parking solutions and enhance the shopping experience in this growing community.
