TRAFFIC and parking concerns are growing for residents surrounding the Catherine McAuley College precinct in Medowie.
Residents living near the entrance to Pacific Dunes and in surrounding streets say increasing student and parent parking has placed pressure on local roads, with vehicles regularly lining both sides of nearby streets.
One nearby resident described the situation as “out of control”.
Locals say conditions become particularly difficult during peak traffic periods, when school buses travel through the area while parents collect students.
Concerns have been raised about pedestrian safety beyond the bus stop and the proximity of the Kindy Patch Medowie preschool on Sylvan Avenue.
Residents have also reported damage to lawns and verges caused by vehicles parking on soft ground during wet weather.
Residents are also worried about the future impact of a new primary school planned beside the College precinct, fearing further traffic and parking pressure on surrounding streets.
Jacqueline Wilkinson, Director of Schools for Catholic Schools Maitland-Newcastle, said, “We appreciate the community’s concerns regarding traffic, parking and pedestrian safety in the surrounds of the Catherine McAuley Catholic education precinct.”
Ms Wilkinson said the school and Diocese had worked with government agencies and Port Stephens Council to ensure infrastructure met planning and safety standards, while investing in “footpaths, crossings, traffic lights and road improvements”.
She added that the College continues to reinforce “road safety, respectful parking and neighbourhood courtesy expectations” with students and families.
The school encourages residents experiencing parking issues to report concerns directly to the College.
As the precinct continues to expand alongside Medowie’s growing population, residents are encouraging parents to remind young drivers to remain mindful of surrounding residential streets when parking near the College.
By Ruby VAN DE WIJGAART
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