In Boroondara we currently have concerns about large scale developments that are affecting our PBN bike lanes. In one case, the Bunnings development in Burwood Road, Hawthorn, there will be an interruption to wide kerbside lanes due to the need to create new turning lanes for entry to the site. In another, the Tooronga Village development, we are concerned that the opportunity to link the exclusive bike lanes in Tooronga Rd either side of the development site may be lost for the foreseeable future.

It requires constant vigilance on the part of BUG members and other concerned cyclists to identify these issues. Plans are not easily come by and even contacting council staff and identifying and attending the relevant Council meeting to protest is no guarantee of success.

It seems to me that the only long-term solution to this problem is for the State Government to pass legislation requiring developers not to worsen cycling facilities, and ideally where possible to improve them. It seems to me that there is a hopeful precedent with the new legislation requiring the inclusion of bike parking facilities in large developments.

I have written to Planning Minister Rob Hulls pointing out that such legislation is needed if the State government sponsored PBN is to be protected and advanced, and that this is in line with statements in Melbourne 2030 supporting cycling.

What do other members think? Do you have similar problems in other municipalities and if so how are you reacting?

Julia Blunden

Address: 29 Elgin Street, Hawthorn, Vic 3122

Phone/Fax: 9853 5095

Email: jblunden@...