COUNCILLORS have rejected a median fence for Summer Street, saying it would disadvantage businesses while doing little for pedestrian safety.
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All 12 councillors were united in their opposition to NSW Roads and Maritime Services’ proposal, saying a fence to stop jaywalkers between Sale Street and Peisley Street would create too many other problems.
Councillor Russell Turner said accidents were decreasing and businesses on the “cold side” of Summer Street already struggled in winter.
“If they were increasing, we would find it very hard to object,” he said.
“We’ve got to give [businesses] as little inconvenience as possible.”
Councillor Jason Hamling said one solution could be a 12-month education strategy.
“The RMS could say, ‘do the right thing or we’ll put this fence in’,” he said.
Following the meeting, Cr Turner said the RMS could proceed with the project without council approval, but did not believe it would take that course.
“I don’t believe that they want to get off-side with the general public,” he said.
The council will ask the RMS to come up with alternatives.
