Wodonga Council parking officers have stepped up patrols in the increasingly popular area since the changes in Church Street between Elgin Boulevard and the Goods Shed building.

But they have stopped short of issuing costly infringement notices which would have the equivalent value of 40 standard size cappuccino coffees to date.

The Border Mail witnessed 10 cars parking in the no-standing zone on Wednesday morning with some of their owners unaware the changes had been introduced even though they were promoted in a video clip featuring Wodonga mayor Anna Speedie when Richardson Park opened in the lead-up to Christmas.

One visitor, who wished not to be named, said the changes had been poorly promoted by council.

“I haven’t read or seen anything about it,” she said.

“It will be a very costly visit here if you get hit with a fine which I am sure will no doubt happen to someone at some stage.”

Small signs highlighting the changes to visitors have been erected, but seemingly are being ignored.

A pedestrian crossing on Church Street between Junction Square and Richardson Park has also been created as a result of the latter opening.

“Officers are continuing to educate motorists about the changes and initially issuing warnings rather than infringements,” the council’s acting chief executive Leon Schultz said.

“Infringements range from about $80 to $200 depending on the area you are parking.

“Warnings have generally been issued, but repeat offenders can expect to receive a fine.

“Changes were made to the parking in and around Church Street to coincide with the opening of Richardson Park prior to Christmas for the safety of everyone enjoying the space.

“With the opening of Aurora Way, there is plenty of parking now available in and around the precinct.

“The long vehicle bay next to Junction Square is now a 20-minute parking zone while the northern end of Church Street will be a two-hour zone.

“The changes also addressed vehicles being parked across footpath areas which had become an issue for those in the community with limited mobility.”

The council says an estimated 170 parking spaces exist in the Junction Square precinct.

It has been solely responsible for the parking changes made.

Regular patrols of the Junction Square area by council parking officers will continue.