A paid parking model is to be introduced into the Stromlo Forest Park to pay for permanent funding of the popular recreation destination.
Announced by the Special Minister of State, Chris Steel, the paid parking model is to be introduced later in the year with all revenue it generates invested directly back into Stromlo.
“This includes the construction of new trails as well as ongoing maintenance of the existing network,” Mr Steel said.
“Stromlo Forest Park is a premier recreation destination and continues to experience growing popularity, attracting around 560,000 visitors each year,” he said.
“This popularity is placing pressure on the facilities in the park.”
Mr Steel said the site required ongoing maintenance and new, interesting and challenging tracks and trails to keep its status as one of Australia’s best places to experience recreational activities.
He said the parking model was based on the success of the National Arboretum which used the same approach to deliver new infrastructure and a better experience for locals and visitors.
“To inform future investment of the revenue, the ACT Government will also begin work on a five-year Stromlo Forest Park Trails Masterplan, that will involve public consultation,” the Minister said.
“This Trails Masterplan will review existing trails and plan for new trails for key site users including runners, mountain bike riders, road cyclists, equestrian riders, and the general public,” he said.
He said the parking fees would be modest and accommodate people who needed to use the park for long periods of time, with the first 15 minutes free, progressing to the most expensive fee of $3.90 for over six hours.
For frequent users, Mr Steel said an annual $87 pass would also be available, “this equates to $1.67 per week over the year,” he said.
