Monash Council will install bollards in Eaton Mall to protect pedestrians against car attacks

OAKLEIGH’S popular Eaton Mall will get a security upgrade to protect pedestrians against vehicle attacks.

OAKLEIGH’S popular Eaton Mall will get a security upgrade to protect pedestrians against vehicle attacks.

Monash Council has announced a $320,000 project, including better security infrastructure and bollards across the three intersections in the mall, to deter vehicles from entering the area.

Monash mayor Paul Klisaris said the project was guided by a Federal Government report and the heightened security concerns about random attacks using vehicles, including the “terrible incidents” in the Bourke St Mall and Flinders St.

“Eaton Mall is a very popular place for outside dining and attracts huge numbers of people and it’s important we now put measures in place to safeguard visitors given the heightened security concerns,” Cr Klisaris said.

Eaton Mall is getting a security upgrade to protect pedestrians against vehicle attacks. Picture: Lawrence Pinder

The design of the bollards is still being determined.

“Once we have some concepts in place we will consult with residents and traders about what is being proposed,” Cr Klisaris said.

“We’ll also be making sure the designs reflect the amenity of the mall.”

Eaton Mall trader and Oakleigh Traders Association secretary Yianni Poupouzas said the association had pushed for the safety upgrades after the Flinders St incident.

“We are really pleased (the council) took such swift action,” he said.

Construction will start in September and be completed by the end of the year.

The State Government contributed $250,000 through the Department of Justice Public Safety Infrastructure Fund towards the project, and the council $70,000.

Cr Klisaris said the council was also investigating whether to introduce bollards in other areas in Monash, including Kingsway in Glen Waverley, but this round of funding would only apply to Eaton Mall.