Finding a park in Newcastle’s city centre could become easier under new parking changes set to be introduced across the CBD during the second half of 2026.
City of Newcastle will update parking conditions in the area bounded by Darby, Scott, Pacific and King streets, with the changes aimed at improving access for visitors.
This update will also be supporting businesses that operate into the evening and on weekends.
Under the new arrangements, paid two-hour parking on weekdays will be extended from 5pm to 7pm.
On weekends and public holidays, most of the affected areas will switch to four-hour free parking between 9am and 4pm.
The changes primarily apply to areas that are currently limited to two-hour parking from 9am to 5pm on weekdays and from 9am to noon on Saturdays.
City of Newcastle says the updated time limits are designed to keep parking spaces turning over at times when more people are visiting the city for dining, entertainment and events outside traditional business hours.
The council believes the increased turnover will make it easier for motorists to find a parking space while encouraging more people to spend time in the CBD.
Not every street will be affected in the same way.
Existing one-hour and half-hour parking restrictions in parts of Hunter Street and Crown Street, along with other locations that already have different conditions, will remain unchanged.
Motorists are being urged to continue checking parking signs before leaving their vehicles, as restrictions will vary depending on the location.
The EasyPark app will also display the applicable parking conditions for each space.
City of Newcastle said the parking updates reflect the changing way the city is being used, with growing numbers of people visiting the CBD outside standard business hours.
The rollout will take place progressively throughout the remainder of 2026.
Drivers are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the new conditions as they are introduced to avoid fines and ensure they comply with local restrictions.
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