Launceston needs to think broader than "just parking" if it is to address a lack of vibrancy in the CBD.
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This, according to Cityprom executive officer Steve Henty, who welcomed a council commissioned report to examine the future of Launceston's retail sector.
Mr Henty said Cityprom had engaged with the council and other agencies to determine the best strategies to help revitalise the CBD.
However, he said there was no merit to community opinions that free parking would provide a silver bullet.
"We need to think broader than parking, and broader than siloed issues," he said.
"Our city actually has everything that people talk about.
"People say free parking, we do have free parking from 3.30pm to 5.30pm in all of our multi-storeys.
"People talk about wanting parking meters to be longer, we do have three hour parking meters one block outside of the CBD.
"Walk around and see how many spaces are free and you will see that parking is pretty much utilised in our city."
However, Launceston Chamber of Commerce chief executive Neil Grose said many retailers argued the free period for two-hour parking didn't properly reflect customer activity, or stimulate more foot traffic.
"The overwhelming majority of those with the skin in the game are adamant that having easy and cheap access to parking close to retail precincts is vital to bringing customers to the city to spend their money," he said.
"I have recently spoken with several national retailers investigating Launceston for opportunities and their ultimate choice of location is dependent upon good access by customers to their potential store from good car parking facilities."
The City of Launceston have commissioned the University of Tasmania to complete the report, with the aim of providing an "evidence-based discussion" around retail challenges.
Mr Grose said a strategic plan for the CBD should investigate many options, not just quick fixes.
"The message we are hearing from our members is that Launceston is losing its edge as a desirable place to shop, browse, eat and drink. The CBD no longer holds a monopoly over the shopping public," he said.
"We shouldn’t just be looking at regional cities for inspiration.
"Cities like Melbourne are also creating great examples of how to activate CBD areas.
'We already have the jigsaw pieces – they just need putting together so that we can all see the big picture."
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