Cairns council has solved the CBD parking crisis with free car spaces - for the next few days at least.

Anyone heading in to the city centre for post-Christmas sales or the New Year’s Eve fireworks can take advantage of the newly opened Lake Street car park following the completion of a $6 million upgrade.

The multi-storey car park will be open to all with free parking until 8.30am on Tuesday January 2.

“This is our gift back to the community to say ‘thank you’ for your patience during the upgrade works,” Cr James said. “We know it’s been an inconvenience but we’ve reached the finish line.

The 302-space car park was closed for refurbishment in June. Since then, everything from the bicycle racks, the lift, and the electrical system has been upgraded. Plus a new aluminium façade complements the tropical Lake Street character.

“Now it has a new look – both inside and out – is more accessible, and includes security features such as CCTV cameras and improved lighting," Cr James said.

“This will be the premier carpark facility for our city centre, open 24/7 and available for both workers and visitors to the CBD.”

From January 2, parking rates during regulated hours (8.30am-6pm 7 days) will be $1.40 an hour, capped at $10 a day. Parking is free outside these hours.

Free, time-limited parking is available in centre-median parking areas all year round.