“Last week’s ‘BIG IDEA’ about pedestrian crossings is essentially basic road safety for pedestrians in Bairnsdale but for some reason the message falls on tin ears in the East Gippsland Council Chamber and offices” said a frustrated president of the Bairnsdale Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Trevor Hancock.
“The Chamber has raised the dangerous lack of crossings in front of the post office and library for several years, but to no avail.
“Of course we get the excuse of budget restraints, round-about position and priorities. That is just typical of the lack of interest in the basic infrastructure of Bairnsdale.
“Look at footpaths and gutters in Main Street – you don’t see that in Lakes, Bruthen, Cann River, Orbost, Paynesville or Metung.”
Mr Hancock described the new pedestrian crossings in Church Street Lakes Entrance as “incredulous and worth a visit to see the perfect ‘yes minister, new hospital’,” exercise.
“Was there a pedestrian count in these over the top new crossings? he asked
“Who initiated these ‘industrial landmarks’ and what was the cost?
“They illustrate the lack of common sense and total disregard for Bairnsdale’s critical need for pedestrian safety.”
