The tourists are starting to arrive now – and what greets them?  

As of yesterday, 23 vacant shops in Macrossan Street - and yes, I walked the street and counted them and the signage around town advising two-hour parking.     

WELCOME!

It is well researched that there is relativity between retail premises performance and car parking.

“Dear Tourist, in Macrossan Street you have a choice of 2 hour parking, and to make sure you understand this there are large signs entering into town to make sure you understand," the message to the tourist is.

No signs saying “Welcome to Port Douglas Business District, oh - I forgot to mention we do not have a parking attendant and sorry as there is no sign telling you this”.  

Without knowing, a tourist after some searching finding a parking spot, has a problem in two hours - not enough time to have lunch AND go shopping, let alone hairdresser, massage, spa.

Why do we have two-hour parking signs with no parking attendant?

I would like to know.

This problem has been raised by me to the councillors over the past four years, mentioned regularly, no action.  

Now, before you start, yes, I am a new boy in town, I've only been around here on and off for 15 years.

Back then, this town was prosperous, now...?

While I am on about parking, there are at least 40 of the 200 prime spots to park occupied by businesses, proprietors or staff, some with advertising on their vehicle so we know who the businesses are who are taking up customers spots at the cost of other businesses. 

There are some 200 plus vacant parking spots behind premises in Macrossan Street, sure permission to park there would be required from property managers.

Who cares about businesses, employment, tourists?