Kingsford and South Coogee cycleway route may be scrapped

Residents railing against a cycleway proposed between Kingsford and South Coogee could see it scrapped due to concerns cyclists and motorists would be on a collision course, and other fears.

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Residents railing against a cycleway proposed between Kingsford and South Coogee could see it scrapped due to concerns cyclists and motorists would be on a collision course, and other fears.

Four Randwick councillors will at a council meeting on Tuesday argue for the overturning of an April decision supporting the route along Bundock St, Avoca St and Sturt St.

The new proposed routes of an east-west cycle track from Coogee to Kingsford. Picture: Randwick Council

The 1.9km cycleway would connect to existing others at Coogee and Maroubra, and the Kingsford light rail terminus. Pedestrian paths would also be provided.

Many residents are concerned street parking and up to 37 trees could be removed for the project.

One of the dissenting councillors, Harry Stavrinos, told of safety concerns.

He said there were about 150 driveways along the route, which was uncommon for city cycleways.

“You’ll have residents reversing out of driveways and not knowing if there is a cyclist coming,” he said.

“This route offers false security to cyclists.”

Randwick councillor Harry Stavrinos. Picture: Daniel Aarons

Cr Stavrinos prefers a north-south cycleway along Anzac Pde.

The cycleway could be built along the median strip, and unlike the other proposal, would not see parking spaces lost.

Mayor Kathy Neilson was optimistic about the route between Kingsford and South Coogee.

She said staff had listened to community feedback and were refining the design to save as many trees as possible.

The refined design would soon be put forward for consideration.

An artist impression of the proposed cycleway on Bundock St, South Coogee. Picture: Randwick Council

“I think it’s really important for all councillors and interested community members to know that should council proceed with the current route, a significant number of trees will be saved,” she said.

She said the council could still decide not to proceed with the project if not satisfied the refined design saved enough trees.

Sixty replacement trees would be planted as part of this option.

Cr Stavrinos, along with councillors Anthony Andrews, Tony Bowen and Alexandra Luxford, will put forward a recession motion asking the previous decision be overturned.

The public can register to speak at the meeting, which starts at 6pm