Residents of Derby Crescent feel neglected by the QueenSAVEtrees group, who successfully saved trees on Queens Avenue but did not support their cause. The campaign to stop tree felling on Queens Avenue received over 9000 signatures, while the Derby Residents group presented a petition signed by 51 residents to Glen Eira Council. A spokesperson for the Level Crossing Removal Project stated that a recent community survey showed 67% support for a cycling connection in the suburb and are considering Derby Crescent as an alternative to Queens Avenue.
Nicky Willis from the QueenSAVEtrees group acknowledged the distress of Derby Crescent residents and did not support the idea of a bike path on the street if it meant removing trees and amenities. She suggested that the issue could be resolved if authorities explored other options and improved community consultation. The lack of consultation was seen as a major issue by Willis, highlighting the ongoing tensions between the two groups on the street.
The Derby Residents group has taken action by placing green bows on trees along the street and putting up signs reading “Make Derby green again” and “Yes to trees, no to bike paths” along the railway fence. They have also submitted a petition and a submission to Glen Eira Council, urging them to consider the impacts of a shared user path on their street. Glen Eira Mayor Anne-Marie Cade has assured residents that any design or option put forward must balance the needs of the community and the local environment, ensuring the retention of trees and protection of resident amenities.
The Level Crossing Removal Project is continuing to refine design options for the proposed shared-use path at Derby Crescent, following a change in position from Glen Eira Council and strong community support for the bike path. A design for the shared path, with input from the council, is in the early stages and will be shared with residents and the broader community in the coming weeks. The authority has ruled out an off-road shared use path along Derby Crescent, which would have required significant tree removal.
The ongoing tensions between the QueenSAVEtrees group and Derby Crescent residents highlight the challenges faced in balancing community needs and environmental concerns in infrastructure projects. The lack of consultation and support between the two groups has led to increased tensions and disagreements on the proposed bike path. Moving forward, it will be crucial for authorities to consider all options and consult with residents to ensure the best outcome for both the community and the environment.
Despite the challenges faced, there is an opportunity for dialogue and compromise to address the concerns of both groups involved. By working together and considering alternative options, authorities can find a solution that balances the need for a cycling connection with the preservation of trees and resident amenities. Community input and engagement will be essential in the decision-making process to ensure that the final design of the shared-use path at Derby Crescent meets the needs and concerns of all stakeholders involved.
