Speed limit cut to 30km/h on Preston shopping strip
Kemran Mestan, a regular cyclist who wanted Darebin Council to add a bike lane to High Street in Preston as it undergoes an upgrade. Photo Credit: Joe Armao
The Age: Speed limit cut to 30km/h on Preston shopping strip. Lachlan Abbott (26 November 2025)
The speed limit will be cut to 30km/h on High Street in Preston in a move to calm traffic along the busy shopping strip, but cyclists say parking has been wrongly prioritised over a dedicated bike lane.
Darebin Council endorsed a $7.5 million plan on Monday night to upgrade the thoroughfare between Murray Road and Bell Street in Melbourne’s north.
Clearways will be removed – increasing the total hours of on-street parking – four new zebra crossings installed, dozens of trees added, and extra seating built in a bid to further boost amenity for pedestrians and calm traffic.
But despite cycling safety being the top concern in online feedback to the council about the draft design, no new bike lanes are planned.
Kemran Mestan, a regular cyclist in Darebin who spoke at Monday night’s meeting, appreciated the new speed limit but was disappointed that dedicated cycling lanes had been overlooked.
Council officers said bikes lanes were possible only if the High Street median strip was removed and footpaths were narrowed, reducing greenery and walkability.
However, Mestan argued on-street parking spaces no longer subject to a clearway could be sacrificed and replaced with a bike lane instead. Cyclists currently felt unsafe as they weaved between traffic on High Street, he added.
“Car parking is the cholesterol in the arteries of our city,” Mestan said. “It seems silly that we use all this valuable public land just so people can leave their cars there.”
Councillor Ruth Jelley amended the motion endorsing the High Street plan to acknowledge concerns about cycling access, requiring an investigation into installing extra safety signs if bike lanes were too difficult.
Gianni Menara, president of the Preston Business Association, supported the council’s bike lanes stance, saying on-street parking was still valuable to businesses.
“[Shoppers] don’t just come from Darebin. We have people coming from the outer suburbs. Some of them are elderly,” he said.
“I think the area is already pretty well-serviced by bike lanes on Murray Road and Cramer Street.”
Menara, whose family has operated Lucchini Cakes on High Street for more than 50 years, was hopeful the revamp would be a boost for the area.
He was still concerned about construction disrupting businesses and was unsure how speed limit reductions and clearway removals would affect trade.
“The street does need a clean-up,” Menara said. “It has been a while since anything major [was] done.
“We can only hope that more people frequent the area with less [vehicle] traffic and more amenity.”
A council report noted that 71 per cent of the 137 respondents to an online survey supported reducing the High Street speed limit to 30km/h.
Mestan said cities overseas still had thriving streetscapes with fewer vehicles.
“Traders often think that their business will be badly affected. I can understand the worry, but I think it’s a mistaken worry,” he said.
Darebin Council will now start detailed design and advocate for state and federal governments to add to the $4.1 million that the municipality has set aside for the project over the next three years.
Infrastructure Victoria: Building Safer Bicycle Networks recommendations for Darebin
Building safer cycling networks
Infrastructure Victoria has called upon the Victoria Government to invest in cycling corridors in Melbourne and a network of cycle corridors in Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo and Wangaratta over the next 10 years.
The report calls for two routes in Darebin:
Moonee Ponds to Northcote
Essendon to LaTrobe University
Victoria’s infrastructure strategy 2025–2055, recommends a network of 16 priority cycling corridors would create 250 kilometres of continuous and safe bike connections for Victorian cyclists. Infrastructure Victoria estimates it would cost the government up to $620 million over 5 years to provide the following routes.
Here is a link to the technical report on cycling.
“The Victorian Government has made some good progress in recent years with over 250 kilometres of new active transport links made possible through major projects such as the level crossing removals. The next priority is to fund and deliver, with local councils, these 16 cycling corridors to provide safer connections for all users across the network,” Dr Spear said.
Victoria’s infrastructure strategy 2025–2055 will be tabled in the Victorian Parliament this week to inform the policies of all parties. The Victorian Government is required to respond to the strategy recommendations within 12 months.
Here are the key recommended routes across Melbourne below.
Here is the detail of these two routes in Darebin as detailed in the Darebin Council Streets for People Feasibility Study Routes:
Northcote to Moonee Ponds: Route 1. Beavers Road, Dennis Street and Christmas Street (in Darebin)
Essendon to Latrobe University: Route 5. Gower and Cramer Street. (in Darebin)
Here is link to the full Streets for People Feasibility Report - the map below showing the full set of cycling routes from that report.
Route 1 Northcote to Moonee Ponds (via Brunswick) - map below
Route 5. Essendon to Latrobe University (Preston Activity Link via Gower and Cramer streets) - map below
Critical Mass: St Georges Road
Meet State Library, 5.30pm Thursday 25 September 2025 (Grand Final Eve Eve)
Ride to St George's Road Intersection & post ride drinks and chat at Terminus Hotel.
We call on VicRoads to fix the intersection to improve safety for cyclists (or all road users) connecting to the shared median path heading north. Congestion from high volumes of cyclists needing to cross the tram tracks poses a significant safety threat for all who use the intersection.
We call upon Kat Theophanous and Gabrielle Williams to:
Permanently closing these minor vehicle crossovers along the St Georges Road median path.
Fix the intersection so pedestrians and cyclists have a safe connection to the shared path in the median.
Email: Gabrielle Williams: Minister for Transport Infrastructure, Minister for Public and Active Transport
Why St George's Road?
The St Georges Road shared median path is a major tram route and the premier cycling route in the north of Melbourne with over half a million cycle journeys a year.
Crossovers
Cars are meant to give way to all median path users, but there have been at least 26 reported crashes with cars in recent years and many unreported collisions and near misses.
The crossovers have also caused collisions and near-misses with trams. In 2013, an independent safety audit commissioned by City of Darebin recommended that all the minor crossovers (without traffic lights) over the St Georges Rd median path be closed to motor vehicle traffic because of 'the risks of conflict between motor vehicles and path users'.
In 2017, during the Melbourne Water pipe renewal project, the minor unsignalised crossovers were closed, dramatically improving the safety and experience of the median path.
Darebin BUG started a petition asking that VicRoads and Darebin Council keep the dangerous minor crossovers of the St Georges Road median, between Arthurton Road and Miller Street, closed to motor vehicle traffic after the completion of the Melbourne Water pipeline works.
The minor crossovers are a convenience for a small number of motorists but are a significant danger to safety during 500,000+ riding and other transport mode trips via the St Georges Road median path each year.
Intersection spaghetti
The main Intersection of St Georges Road, Charles Street and Merri Parade is a problem for cyclists. Riders trying to get onto the bike path travelling north have to ride along the narrow footpath (shared with loads of Northcote High School students) before crossing over the road and tram tracks to the median strip where the bike path is.
Proposed e-bikes ban on trains
E-bike at Flinders Street Station
The Victorian Government is proposing to ban ebikes on trains. If this proceeds it will disrupt the transport of many people, which may force many to take cars.
However, the underlying problem is that many cheap sub-standard e-bikes, conversion kits and scooters have been imported into Australia due to a failure by the Commonwealth Government to properly regulate e-bike safety standards and enforce rules for importation and sale of e-bikes and conversion kits. It is the cheap, poorly manufactured e-bikes and conversion kits that are the problem.
If this proposed ban proceeds, it would have a serious negative impact on everyone who takes an e-bike on a train as part of their commute to work, study or other journeys.
E-bikes + train combinations are used,
to fill in the gaps caused by inadequate PT coverage and frequency in many areas
to provide transport options for people for whom disability and/or mobility/medical/elderly conditions (as well as families on cargo bikes) impact their other transport options
to provide access to recreational opportunities such as rail trails and BUG rides
to provide important access to work opportunities.
Streets Alive Darebin notes that the regulatory impact statement:
Has not adequately taken into account the impact of banning ebikes on trains. The RIS presents no data on trips.
Does not take into account the positive impact of ebikes and escooters to accessibility.
Does not take into account the user groups of Ebikes. Users are often families and older people to get around Victoria, often in conjunction with trains. Again, a ban on these devices would limit the freedom of movement of children and families and the older and less able.
Doesn't mention the impact a ban would have on small business or gig economy workers.
Engage Victoria: You can make a submission to the Victorian government here until 18 August 2025
Bicycle Network: Proposed Ban on People travelling with E-Bikes on Trains – Have Your Say NOW by 18 August
You could also send an email to your local state MPs:
Kat.Theophanous@parliament.vic.gov.au
nathan.lambert@parliament.vic.gov.au
gabrielle.williams@parliament.vic.gov.au
Federal MPs:
See also
Darebin: no dedicated cycling projects in 2025/26 budget
South Crescent, Northcote
At the start of 2025, Darebin Council had two modest but significant projects in the works to improve cycling safety:
$50,000 for a modal filter on South Crescent, Northcote
$30,000 for feasibility studies on bike lane upgrades along Victoria Road
Both projects aimed to make it safer and easier for people to ride bikes — especially families and schoolchildren. But both were cancelled or put under threat following a motion moved by Councillor Emily Dimitriadis in January 2025, going against officer advice and community views.
A clear safety risk on South Crescent
South Crescent is part of a Strategic Cycling Corridor — a network designed to connect people safely and directly to key destinations like schools, train stations and trails. Officer reports rated the safety risk for people riding on South Crescent as "extreme", based on national Austroads guidelines. Morning peak-hour counts recorded 208 cars and 159 bikes, including many children riding to school.
A modal filter (a simple, low-cost barrier to prevent through-traffic) was recommended to reduce rat-running and create a calmer, safer environment. Despite a 160-signature petition from local residents, the project was cancelled at the January meeting via a motion moved by Cr Dimitriadis.
Victoria Road – important but overlooked
Victoria Road is designated as a Secondary Multi-Modal Street under Darebin’s Strategic Framework Plan in the Transport Strategy. These corridors are intended to prioritise walking and cycling, while also supporting public transport. Victoria Road carries several key bus routes connecting Darebin residents to Northland, La Trobe University, Carlton and the CBD.
Council had allocated $30,000 to explore bike lane safety upgrades along the corridor — particularly in connection with a planned signalised crossing outside the Northcote Aquatic Centre. Council officers confirmed the feasibility work was “related and complementary”, helping people safely access this major destination.
That funding was later removed during the draft budget process via another motion from Cr Dimitriadis.
A low-priority trail takes precedence
In the same budget meeting, Council unanimously supported a feasibility study to extend the St Georges Road Trail north to Merri Creek. While this connection would be welcome, it was ranked fifth in priority under the Northern Trails Strategy 2022 — behind more urgent fixes such as the unsafe and congested St Georges Road / Merri Parade / Charles Street intersection.
With a history of deferring or cancelling low-cost cycling projects, it’s unclear whether Council can realistically fund this trail extension — even in partnership with, and with financial support from, Melbourne Water.
Missed opportunity to restore funding
At the final budget meeting in June, Cr Ruth Jelley moved to allocate $145,000 in unallocated capital funds directly to cycling projects. This proposal was voted down.
Instead, Cr Dimitriadis moved to allocate the funds to the “footpaths and cycleways renewal” budget line. Officers clarified that this line can only be used to renew existing paths — not upgrade or build new cycling infrastructure — and there is no guarantee any of it will benefit people riding bikes.
Failing to deliver on our own commitments
South Crescent is a Strategic Cycling Corridor. Victoria Road is a priority multimodal street. Both align with Darebin’s adopted Transport Strategy and Climate Emergency Plan, which call for safe, connected, low-stress walking and cycling infrastructure.
Strategic Cycling Corridors are intended to:
Link important destinations like schools, shopping centres and transport hubs
Provide safe, direct, and connected routes for everyday trips
Support 20-minute neighbourhoods and encourage a shift away from car use
Reduce transport emissions and road congestion
Darebin Council has committed to increasing the proportion of trips made by bicycle to 10%. But in 2025–26, not a single dedicated cycling project was funded — even when the funds, plans, and community support were all there.
Backgrounder - South Crescent issues
South Crescent safety under threat - four things you can do! (January 2025)
Northcote Bike Ride for a Safer South Crescent (March 2024)
Cycling on South Crescent (January 2024)
Darebin street safety projects under threat (January 2024)
Petition: Support safe cycling and walking on South Crescent, Northcote
Two local petitions
1. Support WeCycle: give a long community lease for the Pioneer's Retreat, Batman Park, Northcote: update - the petition was presented at the Darebin council meeting on 23 June. The outcome was a unanimous Councillor vote to send the request back to Council staff via the CEO for action. The sentiment was positive in support of the request for reclassification of the property as a 'community' lease. We do not yet have a final outcome and we may still have to 'bid' for a lease in July, but the issue was certainly raised effectively. On this video you can see the vote at around 50 minutes in.
2. Petition Traffic safety audit for intersections in Thornbury: This petition is sponsored by Kat Theophanous
Issue: This petition of residents in Victoria draws to the attention of the Legislative Assembly the safety risks faced by students and community members at two crossings: a) Darebin Road at Wilmoth Street; and b) Station Street at Collins Street in Thornbury. These intersections currently lack adequate protections for pedestrians and cyclists and present a safety risk to those using public and active transport, especially school children.
Action: The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Assembly call upon the Government to commission a traffic safety audit of these two intersections in order to obtain expert, evidence-based recommendations for treatments that will improve public and active transport user safety in these areas.
High Street Preston Streetscape Upgrade
🌿High Street Preston Streetscape Upgrade: what do you want to see?
Wider footpaths, better surfaces, more street trees and landscaping, more pedestrian crossings, more seating & outdoor areas, more e-scooter & bike parking?
South Crescent safety under threat - four things you can do!
Bicycle riders on South Crescent, Northcote
On Tuesday 28 January 2025, Darebin Council will (again) vote on street safety in South Crescent. Can you spare 5 minutes to show your support for the plan to make South Crescent safer?
Scroll down to the tips section below.
Discussions about safety on South Crescent in Northcote have been like a game of ping-pong since 2020. We wrote a detailed history about it in our blog in January 2024. Since then, Darebin Council voted to install a modal filter/vehicle barrier to make South Crescent a safer for cyclists and pedestrians.
The filter/barrier would stop cars driving through the most congested section of South Crescent, while allowing bicycles and scooters through. South Crescent safety was the most popular issue in Council’s survey on transport in Northcote and Alphington in 2023.
Preparations to install the filter are now well underway, according to the Officers' report for the 28 January Council meeting. But a December vote indicated that Labor and Independent Councillors (who hold a majority) are questioning whether to proceed. The data speaks loud and clear - that people support improvements to increase safety for people cycling on South Crescent.
During the 2020 pop-up separated bike lane trial, Council recorded 717 bikes and 1150 vehicles using South Crescent per day in February 2021, making this street a much-loved route for students going to Westgarth Primary and Northcote High schools, commuters on their way towards the city.
Overall, there was a 22% increase in the number of people riding bikes along South Crescent. The report also noted an increase of 69% of ‘young people’, and surveys indicated that people who described themselves as ‘cautious’ bike riders were more likely to use the new bike lane.
These numbers show that when safe cycling infrastructure is provided, more people use it - for travelling to school, work, and just to get around. This is why we've been campaigning to support this modal filter.
For the past year, Labor Councillors have been playing politics with our cycling safety. If Council backtracks on the June 2024 decision to proceed with the modal filter, they will be ignoring evidence from the community, a majority of whom support the filter.
Labor Councillors claim that the community survey results were ‘stacked’ by Greens party supporters. We need to show that Darebin residents deeply support cycling safety improvements and want the modal filter to go ahead.
Here is how you can show your support in only 5 minutes:
1. Contact your Councillors and tell them that South Crescent is an important walking and cycling route and that you want what Council promised to do unanimously last year: better safety for kids riding to Westgarth Primary and Northcote High School. Councillors contact details below.
Some things you could include:
That South Crescent is popular with cyclists and walkers alike. It's a key cycling route to the city, Northcote High and Westgarth Primary, as well as to Fairfield and Alphington. Lots of people walk their dogs or meet friends for a walk too. It could be a really pleasant and safe place in the heart of our community.
Cycling is not only a sustainable mode of transport but also a healthy lifestyle choice. Yet without proper infrastructure and safety measures in place, it can become a risk rather than a benefit.
The current design of South Crescent is, a safety hazard, with lots near misses for riders by cars speeding past too close
You support the option to install the modal filter on South Crescent AND explore safety options for Victoria Road AND explore what grants are available to improve safety around Thornbury High School. Safety for Thornbury High School families does not have to come at the expense of safety for Westgarth Primary and Northcote High School families.
2. Ask a question during public question time. You could ask:
Why is Council considering not proceeding with the South Crescent modal filter?
What action is Council taking to make sure that children riding to schools in Northcote can get there safely?
How is Council investing strategic cycling corridors?
3. Make a submission at the Council meeting. You can register to speak for 2 minutes (hybrid options available). Personal stories are the most compelling, such as:
why you love cycling in Darebin
why South Crescent is an important part of your route
why it's important for children to be able to ride to school
why Council needs to support people to choose to ride
4. Share the petition with your friends on social media.
Councilor contact details:
Cr Kristine Olaris OAM (Mayor) – Central Ward, Mobile: 0427 450 751
Email: Kristine.Olaris@darebin.vic.gov.au
Cr Emily Dimitriadis (Deputy Mayor) – South East Ward, Mobile: 0437 918 708
Email: Emily.Dimitriadis@darebin.vic.gov.au
Cr Matt Arturi – North East Ward, Mobile: 0417 294 158
Email: Matt.Arturi@darebin.vic.gov.au
Cr Connie Boglis OAM – West Ward. Mobile: 0427 938 376
Email: Connie.Boglis@darebin.vic.gov.au
Cr Gaetano Greco - North West Ward, Mobile: 0419 750 214
Email: Gaetano.Greco@darebin.vic.gov.au
Cr Ruth Jelley – South Central Ward, Mobile: 0459 949 340
Email: Ruth.Jelley@darebin.vic.gov.au
Cr Julie O'Brien – South Ward, Mobile: 0459 406 253
Email: Julie.O'Brien@darebin.vic.gov.au
Cr Alexandra Sangster – South West Ward, Mobile: 0467 838 844
Email: Alexandra.Sangster@darebin.vic.gov.au
Cr Vasilios Tsalkos – North Central Ward, Mobile: 0461 389 079
Email: Vasilios.Tsalkos@darebin.vic.gov.au
5 minutes of your time today could make the difference.
Your Street Your Say Group C Consultation Open
Your Street, Your Say Group C now open to December 20th
Share your feedback and ideas about walking, cycling, scooting, driving and playing in Darebin - click on the link below and then click on the interactive map marking the spots for improvement. We suggest that you highlight intersections or places where a modal filter might help to manage aggressive traffic and mark-up pedestrian crossing points that need attention.
Group C covers Northcote West, Reservoir East and Preston East areas.
Streets Alive Darebin: Submission to Your Street Your Say Group C consultation (December 2024)
In response to the Your Street Your Say Group C consultation
Key themes
Accessible tram stops - Tyler Street Tram Stop Route 86. Given the Victorian Government’s commitment to designing new Route 86 accessible Tram Stops in Northcote and Thornbury - there is the opportunity to seek a further commitment to continuing these upgrades along Route 86 to encompass the reinstatement of the Tyler Street accessible Tram Stop. Separate bike lanes could be incorporated into the tram stop design and provide a safety buffer between parked cars and bicycle lane users, preventing cyclist deaths from dangerous "dooring" crashes.
Leveraging funding from the Victorian Government
Darebin Council can’t expect the Victorian Government to invest in active transport if it does not have a program of investment in key cycling routes itself. By abandoning its Streets for People plan that identified 8 designated sustainable transport corridors that traverse the municipality and its grid network (2 north-south aligned corridors and 6 aligned east-west corridors) and approaching this issue through the fragmented geographic approach characterised by the phasing of the Your Street Your Say areas Council is unable to offer any strategic investment plan or advocacy vision to Victorian Government.
How is Darebin intending to effectively advocate to the Victorian Government if it has no strategic corridor commitment in this space in order to leverage State action and/or funding? We note that the following streets are listed as key routes in the Strategic Cycling Corridor (SCC) that are included in Group C:
● Westgarth Street/ South Crescent
● Cramer/Gower Street
● Edwardes/ Broadway
What are Council’s plans to upgrade these routes to ensure safer cycling infrastructure?
Wider footpaths: How will footpaths be considered in this consultation? What alignment will there be with footpath upgrades and opportunities for re-planting?
Street trees provide shade, increase biodiversity and reduce on-street temperatures on hot days. What is the budget allocation for footpath upgrades and streetscaping that align with the Your Street Your Say Groups?
Intersection safety: Intersections across Group C urgently need safety upgrades to prevent crashes and pedestrian deaths. How is Council prioritising spending on pedestrian crossings? – what are the worst intersections in Group C? and how is Council addressing safety at these? Council needs to be working with DTP to improve pedestrian safety – particular at intersections and crossing point near schools and shops.
Specific comments on Your Street Your Say Group C
1. Northcote West: Rat running along the bike shimmy along the trainline. During morning & evening peak there is a lot of traffic along the western side of the railway line - Park St & Hartington St. Vehicles are racing to beat traffic on High St or St George’s Rd, and they also flow up into Latham St & Railway Pde north of Separation, which is outside the study area. We suggest either/or a modal filter at Park St & Westbourne Grove and/or right-turn bans.
2. St Georges Rd bike path - close the crossovers for the safety of path users.
3. Give right of way to cyclists & pedestrians across Merri Pde near Rucker St where the bike path ends
4. Merri Pde traffic frequently causes bus delays for route 506. What are the options to support public transport?
5. Make cyclists exempt from one-way traffic interventions around Northcote primary school, especially Hawthorn Rd. Make it easier for people to ride from the shimmy to the shops without having to use Arthurton Rd. (Or put in a separated bike lane on High St so people feel safer riding along High St).
6. Westgarth Street requires a separated Bike Lane - as only the most bold of cyclists would rise along this Strategic Cycling Corridor.
Preston East
7. Tyler Street Tram Stop - reinstate
8. Cramer/Gower Street - Cramer/Gower Street is a Strategic Cycling Corridor and one of the few safer East-West cycling routes in Preston. It is a key corridor linking the Merri Creek bike path, St George’s Rd bike path, Preston rail corridor bike path, and the Darebin Creek bike path. This route needs adequate separated cycling infrastructure to support this, so that parents can safely escort their children to childcare, kindergarten or school and so that students at Preston High School have a safe route to school.
9. Gower Street - The 40km/hr signs are ignored. This road needs to be redesigned to encourage slower speeds. This is especially the case outside Preston High School, which should have a school zone and pedestrian crossings. How is Council working with the High School to support active travel?
10. 86 Tram Stops - Tram stops along Plenty Rd in Preston should be accessible. Council should advocate to the Victorian Government for the full length of the 86 tram line to be accessible beyond the initial designs for the tram stops in Northcote/Thornbury.
Reservoir East
11. Tyler street is another East-West corridor that links several North-South bike paths and needs separated cycling infrastructure along its length. This is especially true in the North East Preston/East Reservoir area as there are several Schools and Kinders in this section. Traffic calming measures and a separated bike lane to protect both cyclists and pedestrians is needed.
12. Better active transport links are needed to Reservoir East Primary School as the parking and traffic around the school limits neighbourhood amenity for residents and more car traffic around a school promotes further car use.
Restricting turns into Yarra Avenue and a crossing light across Bolderwood Parade is needed here.
13. Darebin Creek Bike Path at Plenty Rd- The bike path crossing for Plenty Rd is not continuous and forces cyclists to ride on the footpath in order to cross the creek. This path crossing needs an upgrade.
14. Albert Street - Further pedestrian crossings are needed across Albert Street between Plenty Road and Tyler Street. The lack of signalised crossings severely disconnects these neighbourhoods and forces pedestrians to walk nearly 1km in order to cross.
We would be happy to discuss any aspect of our submission with Council officers and look forward to hearing from Council on what the next steps will be to action these requests.
Streets Alive Darebin
Critical Mass North returns!
💞Critical Mass North💞
1️⃣ Meet 5.30pm, Friday 25 October 2024, State Library, Swanston Street, CBD
2️⃣ Pick up point: Carlton Gardens corner @ Nicholson and Gertrude Street
3️⃣ Heading due north & dress for seasonal conditions🕸️💀🕸️
4️⃣ Ride together, stay safe: read about corking + massing up
5️⃣ Running late? Download Critical Maps to find us on the day
6️⃣ Bring your on-bike sound systems for our Spotify playlist: Critical Mass North 25 Oct 2024
7️⃣ Speakers: Sally Moxham MC, Ruth Jelley, Dr Molly Hoak, Tony Morton
8️⃣ Organised by Streets Alive Darebin, Streets Alive Yarra, Yarra Bicycle Users Group
9️⃣ Have fun with all your new friends: here’s a CM October 2024 poster you can download or print
🔟 Bookmark criticalmass.melbourne for future rides
Speakers
Sally Moxham and Dr Molly Hoak are Streets Alive Darebin members.
Dr Molly Hoak is a local parent and pram user very affected by inaccessible tram stops and a lack of safe spaces for children.
Ruth Jelley is a workers’ rights activist, a renter, campaigner for women’s rights, founder of Streets Alive Darebin and a Greens candidate for Darebin City Council.
Tony Morton is President of the Public Transport Users Association and a lifetime resident of Melbourne campaigning for sustainable transport and against car dependence. He was a participant in the first Melbourne Critical Mass rides in 1995 and has been involved in campaigns from the push for Rowville Rail in the 2000s to stopping the East West Link in 2014.
Why Are We Riding to High Street Northcote?
High Street is one of the biggest local issues that Streets Alive Darebin hears from people about. It is a source of constant complaints about near misses and crashes with drivers and it’s inaccessibility to locals who travel by bike.
High Street is surrounded by people, especially families, who use bicycles as part of their everyday trips.
Local schools have very high active travel rates and yet it is rare to see these people, families especially, shopping or visiting High Street.
Shopping strips like High Street rely overwhelmingly on locals for business, and this is reflected in how people currently get to High Street.
High Street has parking behind the shops in Northcote, and opposite The Croxton Hotel and across from Psarakos as well as in and around the shops aside from on High Street itself
Safe separate bike lanes are needed along High Street Northcote
At the moment there are Victorian Government clearways during the morning and afternoon peak along High Street that make it a thorough fair and dangerous for cyclists and pedestrians
Given the decline in in store shopping the works on designs for the accessible trams stops there is a opportunity to future proof High Street and ensure cyclists safety
This report: Good-for-business.pdf (heartfoundation.org.au) case studies in making streets more walking and cycling friendly. These examples have shown that safer and friendlier street environments:
Increase retail rental values.
Significantly increase pedestrian and cyclist activity.
Generate more business and stimulate the local economy.
Revitalise 'drive-through' districts into lively places that people want to visit.
Encourage people to spend time outside of their homes.
Reduce noise levels.
Streets People Love
Streets people love are the streets that we can safely live, work, play and move in. Vote for streets you’ll love this October!
Streets Alive Darebin has joined with over thirty five campaign members to support the Streets People Love campaign, supporting and promoting the efforts of local government to create safe and pleasant streets for people to live, work, play and move in. Campaign members are community and advocacy groups representing residents around Victoria.
We want streets that people love - safe and pleasant streets that enable people to live fulfilling lives while safely moving through their local communities. These streets have wide footpaths, trees, traffic calming, safe routes for people on bicycles, scooters and other mobility devices and 30 km/h zones.
They enable all residents to be a part of their local community, to allow their kids to walk or ride to school, to access local services and safely get to where they need to go.
We want election candidates to commit to delivering streets people love and to start by signing our pledge and taking our survey.
Are you a candidate for the upcoming local council elections?
Take the Local Council Candidate Survey & Pledge
Read Darebin scorecards so far
Council election candidate scorecards from one to five are generated from a combination of individual or party position on active transport issues, one of neutrality for new candidates (two to three), votes taken by current Councillors on active transport issues, responses to surveys, commitment to the pledge and feedback from campaign members in the local council area.
Submission to Darebin 2041 Community Vision
Streets Alive Darebin: Submission to Darebin 2041 Community Vision (August 2024)
We are a Darebin resident & ratepayer action group with a vision for thriving neighbourhoods where streets are used by people of all ages, irrespective of whether they choose to walk, cycle, use public transport or drive.
Streets Alive Darebin exists to advocate the Darebin of the future, that is fit for purpose for high-density living to accommodate future population growth and ensure that a more dense Darebin is a thriving one.
The current Community Vision reflects this priority in the statement, “Darebin is an equitable, vibrant and connected community.”
To achieve this, in its Community Vision 2041 and the follow-on strategic documents, Darebin City Council needs to prioritise infrastructure investment that focuses on the social, health and environmental benefits of living in the City of Darebin, including:
Attractive, safe and direct access to key amenities including shopping, healthcare, education and recreation that prioritises walking, cycling and rolling.
Public spaces that support social interaction outside of the home that are welcoming and sustainable, with appropriate infrastructure such as street furniture and lighting to support people of all ages and abilities to move freely and safely for the enjoyment of those who live, work and study in Darebin.
Provide safe and easy access to footpaths and cycleways that are well-connected through a strategically designed network, to provide easy access throughout Darebin for people of all ages and abilities.
Increase people’s connection with their local environment through trees and built environment.
We note the leadership that Darebin has shown in being the first Council to declare a Climate Emergency and that this is reflected in the current Community Vision. We agree that this should continue to be recognised and prioritised in the Community Vision 2041.
One way to achieve this part of the vision is to move towards zero-emissions transport, reducing congestion and dependence on cars. We consider that Darebin Council can act now to achieve this goal which should be broadly reflected in the 2041 Community Vision and detailed in the Council Plan and strategic documents that follow it.
We would be happy to discuss any aspect of our submission with Council.
Volunteer with Streets Alive Darebin
Volunteer with Streets Alive Darebin: we have a vision for thriving neighbourhoods where streets are used by people of all ages, irrespective of whether they choose to walk, cycle, use public transport or drive.
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Response to Destination: High Street advocacy plan
Update: 20 June 2024: Great news this week about route 86 tram stop upgrades on High St! Darebin Council advocacy plan has been adopted
Darebin Council supports what we’ve been asking for - kerbside tram stops and increased signalised crossings. (See Item 5.2, Page 4, pdf file)
Make sure you complete the Route 86 upgrade consultation survey by 30 June 2024! Want to make a difference? Join us!
Streets Alive Darebin - Letter to Councillors: 16 June 2024
We are pleased to see that Council has developed an advocacy plan to ensure that the rollout of accessible tram stops throughout Northcote and Thornbury aligns with community values and Council strategic priorities. This plan reflects the concerns that community members have raised with us in recent years.
Streets Alive Darebin is wholly supportive of the Destination: High Street advocacy plan as outlined in the agenda papers (pdf file)for Monday 17 June special council meeting. In particular, the emphasis on kerbside tram stop designs demonstrates Council’s commitment to the safety of our most vulnerable road users – people who walk and wheel.
We urge you to vote in favour of the draft advocacy plan to demonstrate your commitment to the safety of people who walk, wheel and ride along and around High Street.
Council’s advocacy plan also emphasises the need for safety and connection for residents who ride bikes. This position is welcomed by Streets Alive Darebin, as it reflects the many submissions we have made in public consultations through Your Street Your Say and also budget submissions in recent years.
Support businesses with side street parking options
We note Council and community concerns around the loss of on-street parking and support Council’s position to ensure that parking is available to those who need it most.
We believe there is an opportunity to provide the parking that businesses and their patrons need – especially loading zones and disabled parking – in side streets near these new tram stops. This would enable delivery workers and people with mobility issues safe and easy access to the footpath. To support this approach, we encourage Council to invest in footpath upgrades on side streets to provide more kerb ramps to enable wheelchairs, prams and delivery trolleys to safely be wheeled from loading zones and disabled parking bays to their destination.
Placement of Kemp Street tram stop
There is an opportunity to retain the northern entrance to the Croxton Hotel car park and place the tram stop closer to businesses and homes near Darebin Road – by closing off the High Street entrance to Kemp Street. Kemp Street is a narrow street located in an area of High Street that is in need of more tree planting and public furniture to improve public amenity. Additionally, closing Kemp Street would provide an opportunity for PJs Mexican Restaurant and Croxton Hotel to have on-street dining spaces, and it would allow Council to develop a ‘pocket park’. We note that there has been a crash resulting in serious injury near this location in the last 5 years, and we believe that closing off Kemp Street could help reduce crashes.
Making signalised crossings more pedestrian-friendly
Destination: High Street advocacy plan should include a request for signalised pedestrian crossings to be more responsive to pedestrian traffic. Reducing pedestrian wait times will improve compliance with pedestrian signals, as people often lose patience and cross the road before the signal turns green. This behaviour undermines the hard work of parents and schools in teaching our children to wait for the green light.
Streets Alive Darebin notes that as a primary multi-modal street, High Street should prioritise access and connection for people who walk, wheel and ride, and that car traffic flow should not be a primary consideration in this tram route upgrade project.
Construction impacts
Road construction can have a significant impact on vulnerable road users, especially people who ride bikes. We request that Council advocates for safe routes to be provided around construction zones that do not require people who ride bikes to dismount and merge with pedestrians, or to merge into traffic – in particular merging into a tram lane presents unique safety risks when bicycle wheels get stuck in tram tracks.
We note that High Street is home to numerous and varied businesses, and also to hundreds of residents. We request that Council’s advocacy plan acknowledge the large number of apartment residents on High Street – an underrepresented yet growing group of residents in Darebin – in addition to the businesses who are likely to be impacted by construction activity. Residents in older apartment buildings without appropriate soundproofing will be adversely impacted, especially if night works are planned as part of the project. The needs of these residents needs to be acknowledged in Council’s advocacy plan and appropriate mitigation should be offered, including soundproofing improvements.
If you would like to discuss any aspect listed above, please get in touch with us.
Submission to Darebin Council’s Climate Emergency Plan 2024 -2030
Streets Alive Darebin: Submission to Darebin Council’s Climate Emergency Plan 2024 -2030 (pdf)
We are a Darebin resident & ratepayer action group with a vision for thriving neighbourhoods where streets are used by people of all ages, irrespective of whether they choose to walk, cycle, use public transport or drive.
Streets Alive Darebin exists to create the Darebin of the future, that is fit for purpose for high-density living to accommodate future population growth, centred around the concept of the 20-minute city. To achieve this, infrastructure investment should focus on social, health and environmental benefits of living in the City of Darebin, including:
Attractive, safe and direct access to key amenities including shopping, healthcare, education and recreation for that prioritises walking, cycling and rolling.
Public spaces that support social interaction outside of the home that are welcoming and sustainable, with appropriate infrastructure such as street furniture and lighting to support people of all ages and abilities to move freely and safely for the enjoyment of those who live, work and study in Darebin.
Provide safe and easy access to footpaths and cycleways that are wellconnected through a strategically designed network, to provide easy access throughout Darebin for people of all ages and abilities.
Increase people’s connection with their local environment through trees and built environment.
In response to the Draft Climate Emergency Plan 2024 – 2030 consultation we are supportive of the Plan and note the leadership that Darebin has played in being the first Council to declare a Climate Emergency.
We note that one of its goals is to move towards zero-emissions transport, reducing congestion and dependence on cars. We consider that Darebin Council can take act now to achieve this Goal through the following actions:
Accessible tram stops: Enable easy access to trams for users of all ages and abilities, including those using mobility aids as well as pushers & prams.
Separation - for safety: Separated bike lanes provide a safety buffer between parked cars and bicycle lane users, preventing cyclist deaths from dangerous 'dooring' crashes.
Wider footpaths: Provides an opportunity for re-planting this important economic and social corridor. Street trees provide shade, increase biodiversity and reduce onstreet temperatures on hot days.
Pedestrian friendly design: Traffic reduction and reallocation of on-street parking provides a more pedestrian-friendly streetscape.
Intersection safety: Intersections along High Street urgently need safety upgrades to prevent crashes and pedestrian deaths.
Specific comments on actions in the Climate Emergency Plan.
We note that the proposed solutions to reducing car dependence are articulated as: improved infrastructure for active and public transport, with Actions/Targets listed being:
By 2030, Darebin’s community has access to infrastructure and programs which make active and sustainable transport a real choice for people, resulting in fewer cars on roads and a transition to zeroemissions vehicles that reduces transport emissions by at least 45%.
What proportion of emissions reductions is due to modal shift and what to electric cars, could this be disaggregated? What are the actions that Council is proposing to take that will directly contribute to this emissions reduction? for example electric car uptake is mainly driven by Commonwealth and State governments whereas driving active transport choices primarily sits with Council.
2.4.1 Include a plan for achieving zero carbon mobility and access in the new Darebin Transport Strategy (to be developed after the current strategy sunsets in 2025).
A commitment to a new Darebin Transport Strategy is welcomed however an Strategy must be accompanied with an investment plan that prioritises capital works and education programs with a commitment to building the appropriate street and road infrastructure. This needs to include targets.
2.4.2 Continue to implement the Darebin Electric Vehicle Policy to facilitate the expansion of the electric vehicle network by partnering with the Northern Council Alliance to implement the Community Electric Vehicle Transition Plan for public car charging including facilitating the installation of 66 public electric vehicle chargers within Darebin.
Any on-street park charging plan and policy must not prevent future works that provide for pedestrian and bike riding infrastructure.
2.4.3 Advocate to the Victorian Government to give people real transport choices through increased funding for cycling and walking infrastructure and programs
Darebin Council can’t expect the Victorian Government to invest in active transport if it does not have a program of investment in key cycling routes its self. By abandoning its Streets for People plan that identified 8 designated sustainable transport corridors that traverse the municipality and its grid network (2 north-south aligned corridors and 6 aligned east-west corridors) it is unable to offer any strategic investment plan or advocacy vison to Victorian Government. How is Darebin intending to effectively advocate to the Victorian Government if it has not meaningful commitment in this space in order to leverage State action and/or funding?
improved access to electrified public transport, particularly for underserved communities, including an electric orbital bus route along the proposed Suburban Rail Loop corridor and extending the Number 11 tram to Reservoir Train Station.
What about DDA compliant tram stops for Route 86? The Victorian Government has not committed to fund these upgrades- this should be highlighted in the Plan and given visibility by Council in order to keep this potential investment on the Victorian Government and Council’s agenda.
2.2.1 Create a program that provides tailored household support and a financing mechanism to support electrification and renewable energy, with a target of engaging 1000 Darebin households per year.
We consider that Darebin’s award-winning solar saver program should be expended to include the purchase of e bikes. A pilot could be run in the first instance.
Darebin’s streets (within the confines of the road reserve) are more than ever befor under pressure to support private vehicle movements, alongside other mor environmentally sustainable modes of movement, in particular for cyclists an pedestrians – where conflicts can be serious.
Given the well acknowledged, climate, sustainability and health and well-being benefits of these ‘people powered’ modes of movement, Council needs to do more to accommodate them within the road reservation.
High Street, Thornbury and Northcote Route 86 Tram stop consultation now live
Help continue to shape plans for better tram stops along tram Route 86 in High Street, Thornbury and Northcote.
Have input on the new stop designs by filling in the survey and/or providing a submission here.
Streets Alive Darebin is seeking stops that are kerb extension platforms NOT island stops.
Island stops have the following disadvantages:
require two phases of pedestrian crossing signals to cross the road rather than one - this requires a longer crossing time for pedestrians and can result in j-walking (i.e. Westgarth island tram stop)
Provides for less safe bike riding environment as the bike lane sits in the car lane
Kerb extension platforms provide greater opportunities for footpath and streetscape improvements as the stops are built out from the curb - see the stop outside of the Northcote Social Club which has extended the footpath to provide greater seating and footpath activation.
We note that it is not clear from the design how a separated bike path along High Street will be accommodated from the concept designs. We also encourage you to turn up to the events!!!
Consultation closes on 30 June 2024.
Submission to Darebin Council’s Budget 2024 - 2025
We are a Darebin resident & ratepayer action group with a vision for thriving neighbourhoods where streets are used by people of all ages, irrespective of whether they choose to walk, cycle, use public transport or drive.
Streets Alive Darebin exists to create the Darebin of the future, that is fit for purpose for high-density living to accommodate future population growth, centred around the concept of the 20-minute city. To achieve this, infrastructure investment should focus on social, health and environmental benefits of living in the City of Darebin, including:
Attractive, safe and direct access to key amenities including shopping, healthcare, education and recreation that prioritises walking, cycling and rolling.
Public spaces that support social interaction outside of the home that are welcoming and sustainable, with appropriate infrastructure such as street furniture and lighting to support people of all ages and abilities to move freely and safely for the enjoyment of those who live, work and study in Darebin.
Provide safe and easy access to footpaths and cycleways that are well-connected through a strategically designed network, to provide easy access throughout Darebin for people of all ages and abilities.
Increase people’s connection with their local environment through trees and built environment.
In response to the Draft Darebin Budget 2024-2025 consultation, we note the leadership that Darebin has shown in being the first Council to declare a Climate Emergency.
We note that one of its goals is to move towards zero-emissions transport, reducing congestion and dependence on cars. We consider that Darebin Council can act now to achieve this goal through the following actions which should be reflected in its draft Budget:
Accessible tram stops: Enable easy access to trams for users of all ages and abilities, including those using mobility aids as well as pushers & prams.
Separation - for safety: Separated bike lanes provide a safety buffer between parked cars (or moving traffic) and bicycle lane users, preventing cyclist deaths from dangerous 'dooring' crashes.
Wider footpaths on High Street: Provides an opportunity for re-planting this important economic and social corridor. Street trees provide shade, increase biodiversity and reduce on-street temperatures on hot days.
Pedestrian friendly design: Traffic reduction and reallocation of on-street parking provides a more pedestrian-friendly streetscape.
Intersection safety: Intersections along High Street urgently need safety upgrades to prevent crashes and pedestrian deaths.
Specific comments on the Budget
We note that Darebin's sustainable transport expenditure has fallen below its forecast for the last 2 years. In 2022-23 Council spent only $219,000 on footpaths and cycleways from a forecast of $1.3 million. Expenditure is expected to increase to $3.1 million in 2023-24 against a forecast of $2.75 million, but there is still a shortfall of $73,000 in expenditure on footpaths and cycleways over the 2-year period 2022-24. What has been the cause of this and what is council doing to get this back on track?
Footpaths and cycleways budget since 2020-21:
The draft 2024-25 budget has reduced the proposed budget for footpaths and cycleways by $50,000 compared to what was forecast in last year's budget papers, while the forecast for roads has gone up from $4.5 million to $5.9 million. How does this reflect Council’s policies for giving people more options to walk, ride and scoot?
We note that the 'Footpaths and Cycleways' component of the budget encompasses all activities related to these assets. This includes maintenance and renewal, which appears to make up the significant majority of this budget.
Further, we note that the 'draft capital works program' document provides a breakdown of this amount, with $44,499 allocated for the new Kendall/Harding Bridge and a proposed $100,000 for Your Street Your Say Group B projects (as noted in the addendum). While we welcome the additional $100,000 being allocated to Your Street Your Say Group B, we are concerned this is woefully inadequate in the context of a capital works budget of $31 million and calls into question Council’s stated commitment to sustainable transport and transport mode shift.
Your Street Your Say combines safety initiatives for both residents who walk and residents who cycle, and yet there is no information about what funding is allocated specifically for residents who cycle out of its $3 million ‘footpaths and cycleways’ budget. Could Council be specific about what new cycleways it is committed to? Is Council committed to installing separated bike lanes on Cramer Street Preston, as per its Streets for People commitments, and also in line with community requests from Your Street Your Say Group A?
In considering pedestrian infrastructure we note that there are a couple of pedestrian improvement projects but these are also very small in number and add up to only about $575,000 for construction and $75,000 for designs.
For comparison, the City of Yarra is proposing to spend $1.46 million on cycling capital projects and $500,000 on walking capital projects, together with $770,000 for cycling infrastructure design and $110,000 on walking infrastructure. We are concerned that Darebin is falling behind neighbouring Councils on cycling and walking infrastructure.
Finally, we note that the 2024/25 budget allocation for footpaths and cycleways is less than half that allocated for roads, and that parks open space & streetscapes is less than one-fifth of the roads budget. Why is Council proposing to increase road funding while at the same time reducing footpaths & cycleways, and parks, open space & streetscape funding in the 2024/25 budget?
What could Council do?
We are calling upon Darebin Council, through its budget and through grants from the Victorian Government, to invest in safe separated bike lanes along High Street and reinstate the Streets for People investment program (see the Streets for People Report by the Hansen Partnership and Martyn Group 2018) to deliver safe cycling across Darebin. The Streets for People report lists the top eight cycling routes and steps to improve safety and connectivity for residents who ride.
Council also has a great opportunity to align its budget with the Victorian Government’s upgrades of the Route 86 tram stops. Separated bike lanes can be incorporated into the tram stop design and provide a safety buffer between parked cars and bicycle lane users, preventing cyclist deaths from dangerous "dooring" crashes.
Council could also prioritise spending on pedestrian crossings. What work is Council undertaking to assess the worst intersections for pedestrian safety and what does Council propose to address safety at these crossings? Council can work with the Department of Transport and Planning to improve pedestrian safety – particularly at intersections and crossing points near schools and shops.
Leveraging funding from the Victorian Government
Darebin Council can’t expect the Victorian Government to invest in active transport if it does not have a program of investment in key cycling routes itself. By abandoning the Streets for People plan that identified 8 designated sustainable transport corridors that traverse the municipality and its grid network (2 north-south aligned corridors and 6 aligned east-west corridors), Council is unable to offer any strategic investment plan or advocacy vision to the Victorian Government. How is Darebin intending to effectively advocate to the Victorian Government if it has not made a meaningful commitment in this space in order to leverage State action and/or funding?
Behaviour change programs
In Council’s draft Climate Emergency Plan it states that Council will:
2.2.1 Create a program that provides tailored household support and a financing mechanism to support electrification and renewable energy, with a target of engaging 1000 Darebin households per year.
We consider that Darebin’s award-winning solar saver program should be expanded to include the purchase of e-bikes. A pilot program could be run in the first instance. There is also an opportunity to provide more cargo bike parking at key locations in Darebin (cargo bikes need longer bike hoops) – such as outside schools, grocery stores, childcare centres and recreation centres.
Darebin’s streets (within the confines of the road reserve) are more than ever before under pressure to support private vehicle movements, alongside other more environmentally sustainable modes of movement where conflicts can be serious – in particular for residents who ride bikes and walk. Given the well-acknowledged climate, sustainability and health and wellbeing benefits of these ‘people powered’ modes of movement, Council needs to do more to accommodate them within the road reservation.
We would be happy to discuss any aspect of our submission with Council.
Streets Alive Darebin in the news
Dr Molly Hoak was recently interviewed for The Age article “The battle against the apps and algorithms driving suburban rat-runs’ (11 May 2024)
“Streets Alive Darebin member Dr Molly Hoak lives on Newcastle Road in Thornbury and said motorists often dashed past her home to avoid Bell and High streets.
“It makes the street feel less safe. We have a toddler and we’re really nervous about him playing in the front garden … and we have elderly neighbours who don’t go on walks often because the traffic moves so fast,” she said. “The noise is also an issue.”
Hoak said part of the problem was that the more navigation apps identified a route was used, the more likely it was to be suggested again.”
Inquiry into the impact of road safety behaviours on vulnerable road users
In August 2023 the Legislative Assembly Economy and Infrastructure Committee held public hearings into the ‘Inquiry into the impact of road safety behaviours on vulnerable road users’
Ruth Jelley and Dr Molly Hoak presented on behalf of Streets Alive Darebin at the inquiry.
Streets Alive Darebin: Submission 262 - Inquiry into the impact of road safety behaviours on vulnerable road users - May 2023
Hearings Transcript: Inquiry into the impact of road safety behaviours on vulnerable road users Melbourne -Tuesday 22 August 2023
Final Report: Inquiry into the impact of road safety behaviours on vulnerable road users - Wednesday 1 May 2024
Ruth Jelley, page three of the hearings transcript linked above
In summary, Streets Alive Darebin wants to see street designs that prioritise people and improve safety. As has been noted in this Inquiry, there has been a growth in the road toll this year and, as some of the previous presenters to this Inquiry have noted, it is not just the road toll but it is also the road trauma. Unfortunately I have my own unfortunate example of that just from a few months ago.
Our submission provides details about some of the local statistics of road trauma and injury in Darebin, and we would dearly like to reduce that, particularly reduce the risk, whether that is perceived risk and/or actual risk, of death and serious injury of vulnerable road users in Darebin streets.
Northcote Bike Ride for a Safer South Crescent
On the day: South Crescent ride departing All Nations Park
Listen back on YarraBUG Radio on 3CR: Making things better: talking advocacy with Ruth Jelley and Paul Baker, first interview (3.04 mark) Ruth discusses South Crescent issues after a Streets Live Darebin ride held on Saturday 23 March 2024
Join us for a community bike ride at 10am Saturday 23 March 2024 to show why people want to feel safe when riding along South Crescent (and why they don’t feel safe at the moment).
For too long, our safety concerns about South Crescent have been drowned out. It’s time for our voices to be heard as we call for safety improvements for people who ride bikes along South Crescent.
1. Ride for a safer South Crescent
WHEN: 10am, Saturday 23 March 2024
WHERE: Meet us at the BBQ area in All Nations Park next to the playground near Hopetoun Street.
WHAT: We will do a loop from All Nations Park down to South Crescent near Dennis train station, along South Crescent to Westgarth Street, and then over High Street and back to All Nations Park via the Northcote shimmy.
WHY: The latest round of Your Street, Your Say consultation (see below) is asking community members to provide feedback on suggestions to make South Crescent safer for people who ride bikes.
The more of us on this ride, the safer we will ALL feel
Even though dozens of community members have expressed safety concerns in previous rounds of public consultation, some Councillors refuse to listen to us and have pushed our safety so far down the priority list it may not even make it into the budget.
The original proposal of a modal filter has been dialled back and now the only safety improvement on offer is the removal of 3-4 parking spaces to improve sight lines.
Are you coming along to our ride or want to get involved? Please contact us!
If you think this is not good enough to keep people safe while riding bikes, join us on the ride and submit your feedback to Your Street Your Say (see below).
2. Sign the petition
A community member has started a change.org petition: Support safe cycling and walking on South Crescent, Northcote
3. Your Street Your Say community feedback open now
Council is seeking community feedback on recommended priority locations in Alphington, Bundoora, Fairfield, Macleod, Northcote East or Thornbury East. Draft concept plans for changes such as pedestrian crossings, speed humps, bike lanes and reduced speed limits are now available for review on the Your Street, Your Say Group B website. Feedback and submissions close 14 April
Council wishes to know: do you support the proposed projects? Do you have any concerns, or ideas to improve the proposed projects?
Streets Alive Darebin will be providing a submission on this consultation and we encourage you to have your say on the proposed projects.
Visit Your Street Your Say to find out more about the plan and provide your feedback by 14 April 2024.
Background
You will recall from our January newsletter that Council sought to rescind the December resolution to adopt the recommended Your Street Your Say Plan and seek community feedback, and instead voted at a Special Council meeting on 8 January to adopt an alternative list of projects put forward by Councillor Dimitriadis without community consultation.
This pushed safe cycling projects from top priority down to the bottom priority, once again proving that Darebin Councillors are willing to ignore community feedback and their own Council strategies that support sustainable transport.