Cessnock residents are calling for changes to NSW parking laws, arguing current rules leave some semi-rural communities with limited safe parking options.
A petition to the NSW Legislative Assembly, started by Cessnock resident Marsha Williams, is calling for parking to be allowed on grass verges on kerbless village streets where it does not obstruct pedestrians or create a safety risk.
The petition specifically names Ellalong and surrounding areas in the Cessnock local government area.
Organisers say residents in these areas can be forced to park on narrow roads, despite wide grass verges outside their properties.
They claim this can reduce visibility and affect access for emergency vehicles.
As of 3 September, the Cessnock Parking Petition had attracted 403 signatures and is open until 18 November.
The campaign is asking the NSW Government to amend the Road Rules 2014 or direct Transport for NSW to allow verge parking in certain circumstances.
It also calls for the return of a three-metre parking rule, which organisers say was removed in February 2021.
The wider campaign is seeking changes for narrow housing estates and some residents whose vehicles slightly overhang their driveways.
Cessnock City Council said parking rules are governed by the NSW Road Rules 2014.
“Road users are reminded to operate in accordance with NSW Road Rules at all times,” a Council spokesperson said.
“As the relevant enforcement agency for parking on local and regional roads within the Cessnock LGA, Cessnock City Council issues infringement notices where there are breaches to the road rules.”
People who receive an infringement notice can appeal through an independent third party if they believe an error has been made, Council said.
The petition organisers are aiming to collect 20,000 signatures from NSW residents over three months.
Paper petitions are also being circulated through businesses across the Cessnock area, including Williams Fruit and Produce in Bellbird, PK’s Olde General Store in Cessnock, Ling’s Cafe in Ellalong, Paxton General Store and Millfield Chemist.
The campaign is now seeking support from residents across NSW.
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