124 new car parks open in Lincoln’s Town Centre
Selwyn District Council media release: 18th August 2025
A total of 124 new parking spaces will soon be open across two new car parks in Lincoln, making it easier for residents and visitors to access local shops and services in Selwyn’s second-largest township.
As part of the Selwyn District Council’s Lincoln Town Centre upgrade project, the north car park opened on Friday (15 August), while the south car park is expected to open this week. The new parking spaces support the town’s growth and accessibility.
South car park:
- Access via Gerald and Maurice Streets
- 61 standard parks
- 4 accessible parks
- 4 EV parks (EV charging units will be installed soon)
- 4 motorbike parks
North car park:
- Access via Lyttelton and William Streets
- 41 standard parks
- 2 accessible parks
- 4 EV parks (EV charging units will be installed soon)
- 4 motorbike parks
Parking is free at both locations. Most spaces are restricted to 120 minutes, with some 10-minute parks closer to the shops that will be clearly marked. Bike stands will be added during stage one work later this year.
Find out more about the Lincoln Town Centre upgrade project.
The Council’s Executive Director Infrastructure and Property Tim Mason says it is fantastic to reach this milestone in the project.
Selwyn District Council Springs Ward Councillor Grant Miller says it is great to have the car parks open before stage one works start.
“We wanted to ensure that these car parks were open before stage one construction begins later this year – giving the Lincoln community and businesses time to become familiar with the new parking.
Mason adds: “Later this year, we will be starting work on stage one of the project, which includes a pedestrian plaza, planting over 50 new trees and replacing angled parking on Gerald Street with more open space to improve visibility, safety and public amenity for all road users.
“It’s all part of creating a town centre that works well for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.”
Lincoln has experienced rapid population growth, reflecting the need to upgrade the town centre, he says.
“Since 2020, Lincoln’s population has increased from 8,340 to over 12,000 residents – an average growth rate of nearly 10% per year. Lincoln now makes up more than 14% of the Selwyn District’s population, highlighting the need for smart infrastructure and planning to support the growing community.”
Gerald Street sees about 11,000 vehicles daily, projected to rise to 16,000 by 2045. Heavy and medium commercial vehicles make up roughly 7% of this traffic, says Mason.
Stage one of the project is currently in the tender phase with construction due to start later this year after a contract is awarded.
Councillor Miller adds: “The addition of 50 new trees, expanded pedestrian zones, and cyclist-friendly features are designed to foster a vibrant community space.
“Residents and visitors can look forward to a refreshed Gerald Street and improved amenities, ensuring Lincoln remains a welcoming place to live, work, and visit."