A parking spot has divided locals of an inner-west Sydney suburb, with some labelling the situation “tricky”.
The parking spot in Leichhardt has been occupied by the same car — without moving — for a number of weeks, according to one resident.
Another resident has placed several notes on the car, asking the owner to move it to another space.
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“We’d really appreciate it if you’d move your vehicle, as it’s not being used and is taking (up a) carpark space,” one note reads.
Others have said the car is parked legally, and has as much right as any other vehicle to be there.
However, a second note left on the car reads: “Any thoughts about moving your car, being considerate? A good neighbour?”
The street has rare unrestricted parking and it can be “really hard” to find a space, one resident who posted about the situation on social media said.
Some residents labelled the notes “passive-aggressive”, while others sympathised with their author.
“I can’t see what the point of passive-aggressive notes is,” one resident said. “Obviously they aren’t being read.”
“I understand their frustration though,” another resident responded.
“Parking is so hard in many places in Leichhardt and I think a lot of people get a bit territorial about it.
“Seeing a car not moving for that long can be triggering.
“But it’s also possible that it’s a neighbour who has gone on a long holiday. Tricky.”
Others questioned what residents who only have access to street parking are meant to do when they go on holiday, fall ill, or cannot move their car for any reason.
One resident labelled the notes “entitled”, saying: “You don’t own the street.”
Council responds
Because the street has unrestricted parking, “a registered vehicle can park without needing to move within a time limit”, an Inner West Council spokesperson said.
“However, council may be able to take action in accordance with the Public Spaces (Unattended Property) Act if the vehicle is causing an amenity issue, unregistered, or causing an obstruction/safety risk.
“Residents should make a report to Council’s Parking and Ranger Services team to investigate whether they can take action based on the Act.
“Alternatively, residents can request a permit scheme be implemented in the street.”
Many residents said trying to take action under the unattended property act would likely take too much time.
“At the end of the day, it’s parked in a public place and it would probably be a lot more effort than it’s worth to try and prove the vehicle hasn’t moved an inch in 28 days,” one resident said.
“And no one knows the owner’s personal circumstances — perhaps they’re ill or elderly, or have had to travel somewhere.
“Passive-aggressive notes definitely aren’t going to resolve the situation.”
Another resident said: “There’s no point getting stressed about something you have no control over.
“You make yourself miserable, but the car will still be there.”
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