Since the October 2013 timetable turned Thirroul into a hub station for express trains, northern Illawarra commuters have been driving to the station and parking all day in the streets around the suburb.

This has created substantial angst for Thirroul residents and business owners.

To address the issue, the government announced in January it would build a 150-space commuter car park in Church Street.

Construction began in May and Heathcote MP Lee Evans and Parliamentary Secretary for the Illawarra Gareth Ward officially opened it on Friday.

‘‘This is a big win for our Illawarra customers as we know Thirroul station is an important station as express services to Sydney CBD stop here frequently,’’ Mr Evans said.

The free car park also features CCTV, security fencing and an entry point separate from TrainLink maintenance crew which will continue to use land next to the car park.

Mr Ward said there would be no boom gate or staff ensuring only genuine commuters used the car park.

‘‘It has been built for commuters but inevitably other people will use it as well,’’ Mr Ward said.

‘‘Regardless of whether you’re a shopper or a commuter, it’s certainly going to take pressure off the CBD of Thirroul.’’

He encouraged commuters to use the car park and leave street parking available for people visiting Thirroul businesses.

Mr Ward also addressed criticisms of the distance between the car park and the station it serves.

‘‘There were very few options as to where you could locate the car park,’’ he said.

‘‘We went with the most viable option that we believe services the needs of commuters. It was land the Department of Transport had available and it’s close to the station.’’

He also said the government would adopt a wait and see approach to suggestions the car park would create traffic problems at the Church Street-Lawrence Hargrave Drive intersection.