Back in 2020 when we noticed that Junction Road was on Brisbane City Council’s re-surfacing program, EaST BUG petitioned for it to be re-marked to better utilise the space by installing bike lanes next to the kerb, protected from moving traffic by a painted buffer and car parking spaces where room is available.

Three years later, we were delighted to hear from Transport Chair, Cr Ryan Murphy that Council would finally be moving forward with that proposal. But just before Christmas, we were informed that plans for kerb-side bikeways have been scrapped in favour of an expectation that people will feel comfortable out toward the centre of the roadway close to the moving traffic – cars, buses and trucks. We think that’s unrealistic; even experienced cyclists who ride along Junction Road now will naturally move to the left where there aren’t parked cars (and where there is some shade).

We’re heading out to chat to residents along Junction Rd and the surrounding streets in Morningside and Cannon Hill to explain why a bicycle advocacy group would be protesting Council’s plans for a bikeway. They already have a plan to make this street much better for everyone – we’re asking Council to stick to that plan!

Design 1 – Recommended, and promoted by Cr Murphy in July 2023

Protected bike lanes next to the kerb, with space for car parking between the bike lane and moving traffic.

• this is what the community asked for
• safe and comfortable for kids to ride to school
• will get bikes and e-scooters off the footpath and into the protected bike lane
• parking is easy and convenient – there’s no need to cross the bike lane
• on bin day, simply place your bins next to the road clear of parked cars for easy collection

Design 2 – selected by Council instead

Parking spaces next to the kerb, with a bike lane next to the moving traffic.

• Difficult to park; drivers need to cross the bike lane to pull into or away from the kerb
• Danger of causing injury or death if you open your car door into the path of a cyclist
• Not legal for e-scooters to use the bike lane – they must stay on the footpath
• Not safe for kids to ride to school
• Bin collection becomes awkward

Where to from here?

We’re suggesting people ask Council for kerbside bike lanes on Junction Road, Morningside that will create a safe and pleasant street environment for everyone, however they travel.

Write to Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner at Lord.Mayor@brisbane.qld.gov.au

Or call the City Projects Team on 1800 669 416