Parking problem raised

IT'S a story about a call centre, a car park and a punch-up.

Maitland's controversial 555 High Street bulky goods development has again come under scrutiny by Maitland City Council, this time for parking.

Problems, which have included a parking rage punch-up, at the former Harvey Norman site, sparked lively debate when councillors were discussing an application for an office change of use last night.

The Department of State Revenue proposes to open a call centre at the site which would employ 70 people.

Cr Ray Fairweather raised the issue of parking saying there had already been major problems.

"It's havoc there at times and evidence indicates there is not enough parking," Cr Fairweather said.

"There has been fisticuffs over one parking situation and I wonder about the ratio of car parking to floor space."

Council planning manager Leanne Harris said the call centre would not become operational until additional car parking was built.

Cr Henry Meskauskas said the centre is so busy that workers were parking adjacent to the Long Bridge.

Cr Arch Humphery said the demand for the call centre and the employment of 70 people showed 555 High Street was a vibrant site and that the application was about attracting jobs to the city.

The change of use application from "bulky goods sales room" was approved unanimously.