THERE is no significant increase to the number of park 'n' ride spaces at Cleveland station on the cards, with emphasis to be placed instead on public transport, walking and cycling, Transport Minister Mark Bailey says.
Mr Bailey said a transit-oriented development lined up for the station might provide a small number of additional spaces, but significant park 'n' ride expansion could impact development.
Oodgeroo MP Mark Robinson said 225 spots were not enough to cater for demand.
The Shoreline and Toondah developments would worsen the situation.
"Our car parking at Cleveland station is full by 7am which means elderly people seeking to catch the train later in the day miss out, along with mums and dads with prams and small children," he said.
In a response to a question on notice from Mr Robinson, Mr Bailey said major park 'n' ride expansion was not usually encouraged in regional activity centres like Cleveland.
"Cleveland station is intended to be a key focal point for future employment and services in the region," he said.
"The station will support high-quality public transport, walking and cycling connections to the area.
"Major park 'n' ride expansion... can reduce amenity and detract from future development in the area."
The state government plans to deliver more than 3000 new park 'n' ride spaces, none of which will be in the Redlands.
Mr Bailey said there was a high demand for park 'n' rides across the south-east and it was essential to prioritise investment where it would have the biggest impact.
"In planning for park 'n' rides, TMR assesses the likely impact that a potential park 'n' ride development would have on the transport network, economic development and future land use outcomes."
Mr Robinson said the response was frustrating and disappointing.
"We all know there is nothing firm in the minister's response (and his words) don't bring us any closer to fixing the problem," he said.
He said the number of Go Cards tapped could be used as a guide to determine parking needs.
Mr Bailey said Cleveland station was being considered for a transit-oriented development which could bring a small number of additional park 'n' ride spaces.
The development has been in talks for several years.
A Main Roads spokesperson said TMR had signed an agreement to develop above the northern car park, with the potential for relocation of commuter car parking and a retail outlet in the southern car park.
TMR had bought a site next to the northern commuter car park for more parking.
"The objective of the redevelopment project is to deliver improved transport infrastructure for the rail station," the spokesperson said.
"The TOD will provide several benefits, including increased public transport patronage, improved accessibility, efficient use of infrastructure and improved rail safety and security through increased activity and surveillance."
