A RUSSELL Island man's car share service has been given a major shot in the arm after council signed off on a trial allowing the business to access dedicated parking spaces at Redland Bay.
Bay Islands Car Share owner Aaron Pipkorn launched a petition last month calling for council support, as he had just two private parking spaces at the marina for his four-vehicle fleet and needed more to meet increasing demand.
He told the Redland City Bulletin that the service could help solve parking congestion issues at Redland Bay by reducing the need for islanders to keep a vehicle on the mainland.
A total of four parking spaces have been made available to the business at the marina as part of a six month trial starting on August 3.
Mr Pipkorn said for every car in the fleet, ten people would sell their personal vehicle and use the service.
"It also reduces parking congestion for the rest of the community," he said.
Mayor Karen Williams said the trial would give islanders access to a mainland car without the associated costs.
"We know there are island residents who only need access to a vehicle on the mainland for short periods and car sharing is a handy alternative to maintaining a vehicle at the marina car park," she said.
"Parking near the ferry terminal is in high demand and, while work is underway to provide more parking facilities in the area, car sharing is convenient for short trips without needing to own a private vehicle ... "
Mr Pipkorn said he expected extra vehicles to be added to the fleet as more people signed on to the service.
"The new spaces make it easier than ever to get off the ferry and go," he said.
"Having access to a vehicle without all the hassle of ownership will make a lot of sense to those who might only go to the mainland once or twice a week.
"Lack of appropriate parking has been the limiting factor in expanding our services. This trial will now make it even easier for Islanders to get around on the mainland."
Cr Mark Edwards said the trial was due to start earlier this year but had been delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Council has already called on the community for their feedback, which can be lodged online at yoursay.redland.qld.gov.au.
Cr Edwards said it would help council decide on their course of action after the trial finished in February 2021.
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