Community & Business
27 August, 2024
Bollard installation ‘trial only’
A PETITION to remove controversial concrete bollards on Ceola Drive and part of Anzac Avenue was accepted by Mareeba Shire Council last week and will be raised with the Department of Transport and Main Roads in future discussions.
Speaking at Wednesday’s meeting, Cr Amy Braes noted the bollards were installed as part of a six-month pilot by TMR and that discussions would be held with the department once the trial finishes.
Ceola Drive resident Michelle Haines, who started a petition against the bollards, said she was very grateful it had been received.
“I have never done something like this before and for it to be acknowledged is wonderful,” she said.
She said the 170-odd signatures to the petition were evidence that the unsightly bollards were a big mistake.
“We want them gone, it is dangerous, it affects drop-offs and pick-ups, garbage collections, and there are concerns over whether they will impact house values.”
The controversial bollards were installed along one side of the street in June to section off a formal path for pedestrians and bike riders. It was funded by the State Government under the Lighter Affordable Effective concept which implemented “small-scale projects that test ideas and solutions”.
Public complaints included the impact the bollards had on water flow; children walked on top of them which was hazardous; traffic was veering away from the bollards and towards the centre of the road; and pedestrians were choosing to walk on the opposite side of the road away from the bollards.
Ms Haines said a normal pathway along the grass verge would be a safer and more aesthetically responsible option.
Council said a report would be tabled at a future council meeting.
