Jaz Bradley
Small trader on Inkerman for 33 years – proudly supporting the musicians of Port Phillip
On 15 May, CoPP voted for Option B (buffered) over Option A (fully protected) bike lanes along Inkerman Street, in the 1.2km stretch between Hotham Street and St Kilda Road.
The Bicycle Users Group of Port Phillip subsequently claimed “Council prioritises car parking over a safe bike lane” but I respectfully disagree. IMHO Council prioritised accessibility for its community.
People constantly point to overseas studies which show business has increased after separated lanes were installed. However all these articles refer to ‘downtown’ areas, and major shopping destinations like NYC and Vancouver.
Inkerman Street is not a ‘High Street’. It’s a residential precinct, with its 58 businesses depending on clients seeking out their services, rather than relying on foot traffic. There are only 5 ‘retail shops’ here (including Aldi) and two cafes.
Of the remaining 51 traders, 7 are specialist health practices who provide essential services for hundreds of patients on a daily basis. These are not “cafes and other shops” as repeatedly asserted throughout the campaign. The clients who attend these clinics are unwell or mobility impaired. The PCYC have over 500 members and provide a vital community service for large groups of people living with disability, including Boxing for Parkinsons and movement skills training for NDIS clients. They attend with their carers and depend on access.
These are not selfish NIMBYs, caring only about their personal convenience over the safety of cyclists. They’re vulnerable members of our community who rely on these services for their health and wellbeing.
With only 64 parks left in the street under Option A, this would’ve made it difficult, if not impossible, for many to survive.
But in the end, it was the >1800 residents advocating so passionately for their access and amenity, who won the day. Many without off-street parking are also elderly, frail, mobility impaired and hoping to age in place. Their cars are their independence.
In any debate there are winners and losers, but I believe there’s something to celebrate in this outcome for everyone.
