Over the past 2 years I have been raising with the City of Port Phillip officers and Councillors, issues Queens Lane residents have endured for some years. These major issues have been well documented and well known by successive Councils for at least a decade. 

A common response from CoPP “yes we know about these issues” and “we need to do something”. The last attempt to rectify major traffic issues was in 2017 with minor traffic flow adjustments. Our most recent representations in December 2023 have resulted in some promises for 3 traffic related interventions. The most minor, was an undertaking to install more traffic regulated speed signs and No Standing Signs, however, 6 months have passed since I was advised this action would be followed through, and nothing has happened. 

An undertaking to install pedestrian outstands at Arthur Street and Queens Lane appears to be planned for 2025/26 if budget can be found for the works. An optimistic view would be that, at best, this will happen in 2027. Meanwhile, pedestrians run the gauntlet of speeding cars/e-bikes and the myriad of food delivery scooters.

It beggars belief, that with an ever increasing rates burden on long suffering residents, we must wait 10-15 years for Council to find some “budget” to address well recognised major amenity and safety issues. Queens Lane, bordered by Queens and St. Kilda Roads has become the precinct with the most potential redevelopment sites in Port Phillip. 

To date, despite requests, an overall Traffic Management overlay for this precinct has not been forthcoming. Residents have a right to know how developers will demolish and construct new high rise residential towers. Specifically, what Council has demanded from developers to mitigate noise/dust pollution, traffic management, and protections for pedestrians in a very narrow laneway. As it is highly unlikely VicRoads will allow access points for developers along St. Kilda and Queens Roads, developers have no alternative but to use Queens Lane. 

During the morning and evening peaks, the Lane has become a “rat run” for motorists wanting to avoid the Toorak Road intersection. Residents endure being locked in, unable to exit their properties as the Lane becomes gridlocked. Clearways/No Standing Zones are not policed. The Lane has become the preferred parking site for Uber styled carshare vehicles awaiting fares.

We deserve better, and its time for Council to respond positively to residents needs. I will continue to push Council for action on our issues.