The Tasmanian Government has backpedaled on its decision to provide $170,000 in funding for Hobart City Council’s controversial Collins Street bike lanes.
Minister for Transport Eric Abetz said the decision was made after reviewing feedback from affected community members, including businesses on the busy city street.
“There was considerable concern in the community about this measure and we have listened,” Abetz said.
“I have directed State Growth not to proceed with the Collins Street funding grant deed.”
The City of Hobart approved the installation of new cycle lanes on both sides of the roads as part of a two-year trial earlier in the year.
It will involve the removal of 49 car parking spaces between Molle and Murray streets.
While the state government has pulled funding for the Collins Street lanes, $120,000 allocated for the council’s separate Castray Esplanade shared path upgrade and Augusta Road bike lane planning remains unaffected.
Bicycle Network said the government’s decision “brings into question their commitment to active transport.”
“The recent budget slashes funding for active transport infrastructure in future years and now we see the government pulling money that had already been promised,” the network’s Alison Hetherington said.
“The City of Hobart is doing the right thing by trying to provide more transport options for more people and the state government should be supporting them, not making it harder.”
Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds has previously sought federal funding for the project, advocating for $4.2 million to make the Collins Street bike lanes permanent, according to councillors.
The City of Hobart is yet to comment on the future of the trial following the funding withdrawal.
