Frustrated drivers at Parliament House could soon have access to new car parking facilities under plans to boost capacity in the precinct.
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The National Capital Authority has told a parliamentary committee hearing very early discussions are under way for construction of new parking areas with capacity for about 200 cars within a kilometre of the building.
Parking under the Senate wing and areas around Parliament quickly fill up on sitting days, leaving some staffers, journalists and other workers stranded.
National Capital Authority boss Malcolm Snow told the hearing temporary overflow parking behind the nearby West Block had proven popular on sitting days, helping reduce immediate pressure.
Access for Parliament House pass holders is expected to continue for three to four years or until permanent solutions are found. The Department of Parliamentary Services has engaged external design consultants for new parking plans.
Mr Snow said any new parking areas would be within one kilometre of Parliament.
"We've had very preliminary discussions around what those options might be," Mr Snow said.
"Those options include modifying the existing parking structures, for example, at the rear of [West Block]. That's a fairly radical proposal if I could call it that.
"They've sought our views about different siting options. There are sites where we've clearly said no, we're not comfortable with the impact that would occur with those."
Parliament House routinely has between 4000 and 5000 people working inside on sitting days and as many as 800,000 visitors each year.
Canberra MP Gai Brodtmann welcomed consideration of new parking but called for public consultation.
"The National Capital Authority said it was exploring a range of options to identify 200 extra parking places around Parliament House," she said.
"While it mentioned the area around West Block as an option, it was short on detail and I will be seeking more information through questions on notice."
The NCA also didn't outline the other options being explored, but appeared to rule out the area behind the National Archives.
"I will be asking the NCA what are the other options? Where are they? I will also urge the NCA to ensure there is appropriate consultation and communication on all the options being considered."
