Published Mercury Newspaper
As the Collins Street bike lane trial approaches its halfway point, I believe it’s time for Hobart City Council to begin planning for its removal.
The Council’s monitoring reports have not yet demonstrated the increase in cycling numbers many supporters anticipated, while the current design has reduced road capacity on one of Hobart’s most important commercial streets.
The removal of turning lanes, the placement of bus stops in the middle of the road and the overall traffic layout have made Collins Street less practical for many of the people who rely on it every day.
CBD businesses need more customers, not more barriers to access.
I have no issue with outdoor dining and support cycling infrastructure where it makes sense. However, the bike lanes are not practical on this section of the inner CBD.
With Collins Street moving towards a 30km/h speed limit, a shared-zone model would be a more sensible solution, along with the reintroduction of turning lanes at key intersections.
It would better balance the needs of businesses, pedestrians, cyclists and motorists while improving traffic flow and access to the city centre.
It’s time for an honest assessment of whether this design is delivering enough benefits to justify its ongoing impacts on access and movement through the city.
Edwin Johnstone
Chair, Business Greater Hobart
