A SOUTHERN Moreton Bay islands resident has accused the Redland City Council of revenue raising over a lack of parking at the Weinam Creek ferry terminal.
Karragarra resident Brett Feenan said there were relatively few parks at the Redland Bay terminal in relation to demand.
"There is a ridiculous situation at the moment with the lack of car parks available,'' he said.
"When it comes to the weekends, if you haven't found a legitimate car park by around 5 pm on a Friday, you literally have no choice but to park illegally.
"Redland City Council are relishing this opportunity to fine the residents and their visitors to the islands due to the lack of parking available.''
In May the council agreed to give developer Walker Corp a further three months to plan for the ferry terminal redevelopment, with Mayor Karen Williams saying councillors' two main concerns were better public parking and foreshore access.
The Redland City Bulletin understands that parking _ or lack thereof _ is emerging as a major issue with the development proposal.
A council spokesman said resolving transport and parking problems at Weinam Creek was a priority.
"We are currently considering a number of options, including working with the state government, to identify a short-term remedy until a permanent solution to parking is provided via the Weinam Creek redevelopment.
"Construction of a new bus terminal by Translink is commencing shortly at Weinam Creek. "This will help improve transport connectivity to the area and encourage alternative transport use.''
Mr Feenan said there were only four to 12 hour parking periods on nearby Meissner, Banana or Outridge streets, even if commuters could find a car park.
This did not allow residents enough time to park for a weekend.
"Everyone I speak to is so upset at the situation and council’s lack of care factor,'' he said. "I have tried appealing three fines and have been told that council is aware that there is not enough car spaces available but until more are available, it's just too bad.''
Mr Feenan said if the council was happy to have people live on the islands and pay rates, then it must expect that people had to work on the mainland and needed somewhere to park.
The council spokesman said the government had agreed to convert vacant state land near the jetty for a temporary 58-space car park with a seven-day time limit to help offset work impacts.
"These parking spaces will remain once construction is completed,'' he said.
The council also was working on a whole-of-city transport plan, with Weinam Creek a hot spot. Parking would be a major focus with community consultation.
Providing long-term transport solutions were key considerations in the nomination of Weinam Creek as a joint state/council Priority Development Area.
Cr Mark Edwards said he hoped that after the Walker presentation in August the council would have clear direction on the issue.
Walkers have been contacted for comment.
