Ellen Calls for Safety on Racecourse Rd
A number of local residents have approached me about safety on Racecourse Road, especially on the corner of Smithfield Road and also outside Newmarket Plaza. These pedestrian crossing are dangerous.
Last year, a man waiting for a tram outside Newmarket Plaza was killed after a car and ambulance collided on Racecourse Road, and it was a terrible tragedy for everybody involved.
Local residents are concerned that because of the dangerous design of these roads it will only be a matter of time before another tragedy occurs. We sorely need these crossings changed to protect pedestrians, cyclists and all motorists.
I have written to the member for Essendon, offering to work together to improve this area given it also borders his electorate, but I have not received any response. Despite my calls for change, we have not seen any action.
Last week I reiterated my call for action. I asked the Minister for Roads and Road Safety in Parliament when we can expect safety improvements to these crossings that will prioritise pedestrian and cyclist safety.
I will continue to work with residents to see this happen.