Streets and People S2E26 PnP Steven Burgess Rethinking Parking in High Growth Outer Suburbs
Sep 2, 2025
In this engaging discussion, urban planner Steven Burgess, a leading advocate for parking reform and people-centric streets, shares insights from his transformative work in Brisbane's New Farm–Teneriffe area. He challenges the notion that empty carparks are harmless, arguing instead that reducing car dependency strengthens community ties and enhances safety. Steven envisions vibrant urban villages connected by public transport, demonstrating how effective design can revitalize outer suburbs. His call for bold reform reveals a future where communities thrive rather than just survive.
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People-First Streets Improve Places
- Designing streets to prioritise people, not car speed, creates more liveable, productive places.
- Less parking and slower car movement encourage walking, longer stays, and stronger local economies.
Parking Creates Car Dependency
- Outer suburbs built around cheap parking lock residents into expensive, dangerous car reliance.
- Removing excessive parking around centres makes places more attractive and economically successful.
Phase Out Parking Minimums Gradually
- Phase parking removal gradually and add greenery and wider footpaths to ease the transition.
- Remove minimum parking mandates to let developers supply appropriate parking and attract investment.