Shoppers, staff and a local politician are calling on the new owners of the Logan Hyperdome to uphold the centre’s longest-standing free parking.
After 29 years under the ownership of Queensland Investment Corporation, an investment management company owned by the state government, the Hyperdome was last month sold to MA Financial for what is understood to be a $678 million deal.
Past reports have indicated the new owners are looking to make at least a few changes to the city’s biggest shopping centre, including adding new shops and expanding the Bunnings.
Some locals are concerned MA Financial might also consider introducing paid parking to the centre.
In a letter to the company, Springwood MP Mick de Brenni urged them against doing so, instead calling for the Hyperdome’s new owners to “uphold the centre’s proud community legacy” by maintaining free parking and repecting the centre’s place in Logan’s history.
“For generations, this shopping centre has been at the heart of Logan, a place where families come together, small businesses thrive, and workers take pride in their jobs,” Mr de Brenni said.
“It has brought people together, not priced them out. Introducing paid parking would betray the spirit that has kept this centre thriving for decades.”
Marilyn Mills is one of many residents who expressed concern to Mr de Brenni about a potential change to parking.
She said free park enabled her to visit the shopping centre regularly to meet friends and support local business.
“It’s a simple thing that makes a difference for seniors and local families,” she said.
Mr de Brenni said he also took the opportunity to call for fair conditions for centre staff.
He said the message from Logan was clear: keep parking free, protect local jobs, and put the community first.
“The new owners have an opportunity to get things off on the right foot and show they value the workers, families, and commuters who make this centre what it is.
“That’s how you build trust – by putting people before profit”
Rosalie Kochanek, a centre cleaner of more than 10 years, agreed.
“We’re proud of what we do, and we take care of this place like it’s our own,” she said.
“We want the new owners to respect the people who keep this place running.”
MA Financial was contacted for comment.
I would be very disappointed to hear that the new owners of Hyperdome might put in paid parking. I used to shop at Garden City until they put in their paid parking. It makes a quick trip to the shops really inconvenient. I guess I will head to the Browns Plains Shopping Centre; as will my friends and family that I meet regularly (currently at Hyperdome)
I used to shop at Garden City until they put in their paid parking. It makes a quick trip to the shops really inconvenient. I guess I will head to the Browns Plains Shopping Centre in the future; (currently is at Hyperdome)
Businesses will lose customers if you start charging for parking. We already have gst, fees on eftpos, items more expensive due to inflation and then petrol . People will need to consider those costs before even leaving home to shop.
The few dollars may not seem to be much, but it is for those on fixed income.