‘Street for people:’ Bike friendly makeover ahead for Collins Street

Part of Hobart is set to undergo a huge makeover after a plan for more bike lanes was approved. Read what the council has in mind for the CBD street.

Cyclist on the intersection of Collins and Barrack Street - New bike lanes and parklets proposed. Picture: Caroline Tan

Part of Collins Street is all set for a makeover after the council approved a plan for new bike lanes and outdoor spaces.

Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said the plan for kerbside protected bike lanes between Molle Street and Murray Street will provide more opportunity for people to consider alternative transport options.

Following council endorsement of the concept plan, Ms Reynolds said the project would extend the Hobart Rivulet Park corridor along Collins Street.

Artists impression of new bike lane plans for Collins Street. image: City of Hobart.

“This will create an essential safe link between kunanyi/Mount Wellington and the city, providing our community with the opportunity to consider alternative transport choices while also reducing congestion on our roads into and around the city,” She said.

The project is set to feature adjustable bicycle infrastructure such as signage and markings to allow “swift delivery and ongoing monitoring”.

“Adjustable infrastructure enables us to seek community feedback and make any necessary changes before implementing permanent designs,” Ms Reynolds said.

Artist impression of possible outdoor dining as part of new concept for Collins Street. Picture: City of Hobart.

59 on-street parking spots will have to be removed to facilitate the plan.

The council said reports showed no significant impact on parking availability in the immediate vicinity of the project.

According to the council 91 per cent of priority access will be retained, with existing off-street parking able to meet supply and demand.

In April the proposal was described to the Mercury as the “gold-standard” by councillor Ryan Posselt, while Marti Zucco said it was a “ludicrous” plan that would further exacerbate traffic issues in the CBD.

Example of kerbside protected bike lanes being used in the Sydney CBD. Picture: File

Mr Posselt said engaging with local businesses was an important part of the stakeholder engagement.

“By uplifting streetscape and providing safety improvements, we aim to encourage more people to ride and walk along this vibrant city corridor,” Mr Posselt said.

“This will create a street for people supporting business and future development,” He said. The council received a petition from Bicycle Network Tasmania with almost 1300 signatures calling on the council to honour its commitment to an all ages and abilities cycleway and for the proposed installation to include separated cycleways.

Implementing the plan is set to involve removing a bus stop between Barrack and Harrington streets, as well as a reduced speed limit on Collins Street to 30km/h for the two year duration of the project.

A report will be prepared for the council outlining the strategic significance and key components of the design and seek endorsement to advance the project to the next stage.

Stakeholder engagement including consultation with local businesses will be conducted over the coming month following completion of the detailed designs, according to the council.