Elsie Lange
The Macedon Ranges Residents Association is urging locals to have their say on the draft Black Forest Drive plans, describing them as “the same old story”.
The draft plans for the road between Woodend and Macedon were released in September, which the Department of Transport said take into consideration community feedback gathered in 2021.
According to the department, there was “significant concern” from the community regarding the changing of lane configurations to accommodate dedicated cycling lanes.
“In response, Regional Roads Victoria is now developing draft road designs without dedicated cycling lanes,” according to the department.
Macedon Ranges Residents Association president Christine Pruneau said the designs show RRV “haven’t listened”, as the road will be reduced from two lanes to one around intersections.
“The designs suggest this isn’t a lot different from what was proposed in 2010 and 2021,” Ms Pruneau said.
“Paint and concrete everywhere, ‘potentially’ suburban lighting, and new signs warning of cyclists, a ‘refresh’ of parts of the road rather than full reseal, but not a word about the tactile edging.
“Residents need to challenge RRV because this just looks like the same old story – one lane for motorists, one lane for cycling.”
The department said there would be “a reduction of lanes will be required for safety reasons between Island Farm Road and Brick Kiln Lane and for a short distance at intersections to provide for turning lanes and other improvements”.
Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas also strongly encouraged the community to continue submitting their feedback.
“The draft designs do not include dedicated cycling lanes after previous community feedback did not support changing the lane configuration to accommodate the lanes,” Ms Thomas said.
Long-time Gisborne resident and Sunbury Cycling Club member Chris Steffanoni said he expected there to be opposition from “serious cyclists” who are happy to share lanes with drivers.
He said the biggest danger for cyclists on the road was inattentive drivers and the changes proposed in the draft plans will require more concentration from those behind the wheel, which might be positive.
“Drivers will have to be more attentive going from one lane, to two lanes, back to one lane, I hope that creates more attentive drivers and a safer road for all road users,” he said.
RRV is accepting feedback on the draft designs until October 31.
Details: engage.vic.gov.au/black-forest-drive-safety-improvements
