The upgrade project will widen, kerb and reseal Mary Street between Thomas and George Streets. It will improve parking, increase the separation between cars, cyclists and pedestrians, and continue the link to the school grounds. The project outcomes include:
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To provide improved street amenity and functionality for a township experiencing growth
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To support the continued growth of the primary school
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To support the growth of existing and new events at the Malanda Showgrounds
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To increase the number of car parks, including RV and disabled parking in support of these events and tourism
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To improve school bus parking
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To improve separation of road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, cars and buses
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To improve road safety, specifically for pedestrians and cyclists around the primary school
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To connect the bike-bus network through to the school
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To renew road infrastructure, including foot paths, kerb and channel and road pavement
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To maintain a tree lined street scape with suitable street tree species.
Who’s paying?
We have received 50% funding ($375, 000) from a Department of Transport and Main Roads Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme grant.
Community feedback
Since September 2018 we’ve heard both support and concerns from the community. As a result, we deferred the project until we could investigate further and provide answers to matters raised by the community.
We listened to suggestions to move the project to other streets and to run the bike path along the footpath.
We understand some residents are concerned about the removal of the existing Camphor Laurel trees along Mary Street and we recognise their connection to the trees. We have also considered the petition signed by people wanting the trees to remain.
Design options
When planning for the project all available street options were investigated. Mary Street is the only street that meets the safety and parking needs of the project and delivers the best outcomes for the community.
Combining the bike path and footpath is an unsafe option for cyclists and pedestrians, and would not be functional during peak travel times.
Tree health
An independent arborist (not connected with the project) audited the trees and provided a report on their general health, life expectancy, expected health if the project is conducted around them, and suitability as median trees.
The specialist’s review indicated the trees are in a dangerously poor condition. They have a limited life span due to structural defects including cavities, decay, bark wounds and poor form. Leaving the trees in place while upgrading the street around them will damage their root structure and further reduce their health and lifespan.
Where to from here?
We appreciate the community’s input on the project and have considered all comments and suggestions.
We are now faced with a critical safety issue and have a duty of care to the community. The trees were removed in January, during the school holidays, with a qualified spotter onsite to ensure the safety and welfare of wildlife.
The overriding safety concerns and growth of the Malanda community mean the project will proceed as planned. It will commence in 2019 after the wet season (approximately April).