Article: RACV backs wider car bans in Melbourne's CBD

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RACV backs wider car bans in Melbourne's CBD

RACV backs wider car bans in Melbourne's CBD
Article from: Herald Sun

Ashley Gardiner

May 09, 2009 12:00am

THE RACV has declared its support for a car ban in Elizabeth St to create a city mall precinct.

Victoria's peak motoring body has also backed extending the car-free area of Swanston St as far as Franklin St.

The City of Melbourne is considering seven options for Swanston St and public submissions closed yesterday.

Before his election, Lord Mayor Robert Doyle wanted to reintroduce traffic to Swanston St but fellow councillors have not supported the idea.

A submission by the Road User Collective, which includes the RACV, said none of the options were ideal.

But RACV public policy manager Brian Negus said the option to extend the ban as far as Franklin St came closest.

"There needs to be better separation for cyclists and fully accessible tram stops incorporated," Mr Negus said.

Under the option, tipped to cost up to $20 million, the Swanston St footpath would be widened to the tram tracks.

Bicycle lanes would be part of this extended footpath, while taxis and other vehicles would be banned.

Other options the council is considering include more access for cars, and a bicycle ban.

The collective's submission said Swanston St should be a mall dedicated to shopping, entertainment and dining.

Deliveries should be allowed only after hours and only taxis carrying wheelchair users would be allowed.

"Pedestrians, cyclists and public transport users should be encouraged and all through traffic prohibited," the submission said.

Mr Negus said creating malls in Swanston and Elizabeth streets would benefit the entire community.

"There is a strong case to broaden the mall concept to two neighbouring streets that carry a high amount of pedestrians, public transport users and cyclists," he said.

Other groups backing the call are Connex, Yarra Trams, the Victorian Taxi Association and Bicycle Victoria.

A report will go to council in June before a final decision is made this year.