Gerringong's popular Instagram hotspot, Tasman Drive, could soon see parking restrictions implemented to manage the growing number of influencers and tourists visiting the area.
The coastal street has gained significant online fame for its stunning views of Werri Beach and the lush green hills behind it. However, the surge in visitors has raised concerns about increased traffic and parking congestion.
Kiama Deputy Mayor Melissa Matters has raised the issue with council engineers, who will conduct a survey of local residents to gauge their opinions. The street features houses on one side and parkland with parking bays on the other.
One potential solution, according to Cr Matters, is to introduce parking restrictions on the residential side of Tasman Drive. "If there was no standing all the way down there on Saturdays and Sundays, I think it would help," she said. "Once you have cars parked both sides, it's a bit of a gridlock, and you've got to manoeuvre in and out if a car sticks out a bit too much."
The impact on residents would be limited, as approximately half of the properties are holiday homes or short-term rentals. Among full-time residents, opinions are divided. Some are frustrated by the crowds, while others have no issue. Complaints about litter are also mixed, with some claiming visitors leave rubbish while others say they clean up after themselves.
Cr Matters noted that most complaints are not about major issues but about tourists not respecting private property. "It's when the tourists come onto their property, they don't seem to understand that that's private property," she said. "Sometimes they sit on people's steps. It's not a lot, but it's enough to annoy you if it were your property."
After doorknocking the street, Cr Matters found a wide range of opinions. As a Gerringong business owner, she knows that visitors to Tasman Drive also spend money in the town, which is especially welcome during the winter months. "There are busloads pulling up, but again, there are busloads pulling up outside my door and coming in for lunch and spending a lot of money," she said.
The council will now move forward with the resident survey to determine the best course of action to balance the needs of locals, tourists, and the growing influence of social media.
