Tensions in Abbotsford as council paints parking bays on the footpath

It’s tense between motorists and pedestrians in Abbotsford at the moment.

In one narrow street in the inner city suburb, the war between car owners and through-traffic has gotten so severe the council took the drastic measure of painting parking bays on part of the road and part of the footpath.

Dr Ben Rossiter, Executive Officer at Victoria Walks (an advocacy group for pedestrians) told 3AW Breakfast the trend was concerning and unsafe.

‘It really sends the wrong message, where drivers can mount the curb and park half on a very narrow footpath,’ he told Ross and John.

‘We’re not happy about it.’

Dr Rossiter said that the unique parking bays were of particular concern for the elderly or young children as they are walking.

Listen in full as Dr Ben Rossiter from Victoria Walks speaks with Ross and John