Repurposing on-street parking for economic growth: parklets, outdoor Dining, and bicycle parking
Cities are rethinking how they use their streets, and on-street parking spaces are no exception. Instead of reserving these spaces for cars, many cities are transforming them into vibrant public areas that boost local businesses and enhance community life. Parklets, outdoor dining areas, and bicycle parking are three creative ways to repurpose on-street parking, bringing both social and economic benefits.
Parklets: Turning parking spots into people friendly spaces
Imagine walking down a busy street and stumbling upon a cosy nook filled with seating, greenery, and artwork. That’s a parklet—an inviting space that replaces a parking spot with a small urban oasis. These mini-parks provide a place for people to relax, socialize, and enjoy their surroundings.
Economic advantages
- parklets make streets more inviting, drawing in foot traffic that benefits local shops and cafes
- increased pedestrian activity means more customers for nearby businesses
- cities that embrace parklets often see property values rise as neighbourhoods become more desirable
Outdoor dining: expanding restaurant space into the street
Restaurants have found a game-changing opportunity by converting parking spaces into outdoor seating areas. This approach not only allows them to accommodate more guests but also creates a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
Economic advantages
- more tables mean increased revenue for restaurants, especially in high-demand dining areas
- open-air dining enhances the customer experience, making restaurants more appealing
- streets filled with diners create a vibrant, community-focused environment that attracts more visitors
Bicycle parking: encouraging sustainable transport and local spending
Swapping car parking for bicycle racks may seem like a small change, but it has a big impact. Cyclists are more likely to shop locally, and bike-friendly cities tend to attract both residents and tourists looking for a more accessible urban experience.
Economic advantages
- cities with strong cycling infrastructure see increased retail sales, as cyclists tend to make more frequent stops at businesses
- reduced congestion and pollution make urban centres more attractive to visitors
- bicycle tourism can drive economic growth, with more people exploring cities by bike
The bigger picture: a shift toward people-centred cities
By rethinking how we use on-street parking, cities can transform their streets into dynamic, economically thriving spaces. Whether through parklets, outdoor dining, or bicycle parking, these changes make urban areas more engaging and accessible. Businesses benefit from increased foot traffic, and communities enjoy a more vibrant public realm.
The future of urban spaces isn’t just about cars—it’s about people. And when cities prioritise people-friendly streets, everyone wins.
