Hobart businesses are unhappy with the city council’s decision to start installing bike lanes on Collins Street next Monday, even though a public meeting on the project is scheduled for the following day.
Council officials have refused to delay construction, saying the work has been “scheduled months in advance” and will proceed as planned.
The controversial project will introduce dedicated bike lanes on both sides of Collins Street, leading to the removal of around two dozen car parks.
Chair of the Confederation of Greater Hobart Business Edwin Johnstone said that even with potential tweaks, the refusal to pause the project shows the council “don’t care” about public opinion.
“While people attend in good faith a public meeting next Tuesday night in City Hall to discuss this proposal, just a few blocks away council contractors will be literally jack-hammering away the existing kerb and median island near Village Cinemas as the first part of this so-called ‘trial’,” he told Pulse.
“The council mouths the words ‘consultation’, but actions speak louder than words.”
“I call on council to show some respect for the business and traders of Collins Street and pause these works until the completion of the public meeting and likely elector poll.”
City Transport Committee Chair Councillor Ryan Posselt said the start date had been locked in well before the public meeting was petitioned for.
“The intention has always been to get this trial up and running in early 2025 and the start date for works was planned well before the public meeting was organised,” he said.
“We’re committed to creating a street that prioritises pedestrians, cyclists and local businesses, while still ensuring that vehicles can move safely through the area.”
The public meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 25 at 5:30pm at City Hall.
