Concerns Over Shared Cycleway Design at New Sydney Fish Market
Cyclists are expressing concerns regarding the shared bike path located outside the recently opened Sydney Fish Market. They cite potential safety hazards due to the integration of pedestrian and cycling traffic in a high-density area. This path is part of a critical cycling route connecting Sydney's inner west to the city, utilized by hundreds of cyclists daily.
Design Decision and Criticisms
Instead of developing a separated cycleway during the $836 million construction, the New South Wales government opted for a wide pavement intended for shared use by pedestrians and cyclists.
City of Sydney Council Deputy Mayor Jess Miller described this decision as problematic, stating that combining various transport users in a busy environment presents significant risks.
The council had advocated for a separated cycleway from the project's outset, but these requests were reportedly not acted upon.
Cyclists like Bek Hawkins and Emma Taviani report experiencing clashes with pedestrians, particularly those observing the new market, creating what they perceive as an accident waiting to happen during their commutes. Some cyclists indicate they prefer to ride on the road to avoid foot traffic on the shared path.
Government and Expert Perspectives
Former Liberal transport minister Rob Stokes stated that the final design reflected views within some government sectors that prioritized road traffic over active transport. He identified differing priorities within Transport for NSW, suggesting decisions on the fish market's cycle infrastructure were influenced by those focused on vehicles. Mr. Stokes also noted interests that prioritized large road and rail projects.
Although he approved the final design, he believes a dedicated cycleway should have been included, calling the shared path "the best we could do at the time" due to earlier work not being completed.
A preliminary design for the precinct, seen by ABC Radio Sydney, had shown a fully separated cycleway along Bridge Road with one fewer traffic lane.
A Transport for NSW spokesperson affirmed the government's commitment to expanding Sydney's walking and cycling network. The spokesperson stated that the shared path was constructed to "best accommodate" various transport users in a "constrained environment" and that the government would continue to monitor travel patterns.
Michael Harrison, an urban designer and planner, commented that the final design contradicts NSW government policy recommending separated bike lanes in busy "strategic cycling corridors."
He called the decision "inexplicable," suggesting space for a dedicated cycleway was available due to the building's deep setback.
Connectivity and Future Outlook
Mr. Stokes also highlighted "missing links" between the shared path and existing cycling infrastructure as a major frustration. Cyclists describe negotiating challenging points before reaching the fish market, leading many to avoid the shared path and opt for the road instead.
Peter McLean, CEO of Bicycle NSW, expressed disappointment over the likelihood of increased costs for retrospective cycle path installation. He noted improving attitudes towards cycling but emphasized the need for more proactive implementation of world-class bicycle infrastructure.
Cyclists voiced frustration about being caught between pedestrians on the footpath and drivers on the road.