Work on a controversial bike lane trial in Hobart’s CBD has begun just hours before nearly 1,000 locals are set to debate the project at a packed public meeting.
Contractors began work on separated bike lanes along Collins Street between Molle and Harrington streets on Monday, ahead of tonight’s City Hall meeting.
The two-year Transforming Collins Street trial will see about 35 on-street parking spaces removed.
Hobart City Council CEO Michael Stretton said just under 900 people had registered for the meeting, which was triggered by the Confederation of Greater Hobart Business.
An independent facilitator will moderate the meeting, with four motions up for discussion.
“A report on the meeting’s outcomes will be provided to the council, which will decide whether to act on any motions,” Stretton said.
Confederation chair Edwin Johnstone said local businesses want the trial scrapped immediately and believes the majority of the public is on their side.
All future proposals, Johnstone said, should be backed by local data, go through proper consultation before starting and have broad support from the community and stakeholders.
Many business owners fear losing parking will hurt trade, while active transport advocates argue the new lanes will make the CBD more attractive and encourage cycling and walking.
The project suffered a setback last year when Transport Minister Eric Abetz withdrew $170,000 in state government funding, saying he was responding to ‘overwhelming community sentiment’ against the bike lane.
The move was widely praised at the time, with many calling it the smartest decision the state government had made to date.
Tonight’s public meeting could pave the way for a non-binding elector poll on the issue.
