Pedestrians will no longer jostle for space alongside fruit and vegetable traders in the newly refurbished Peter Lalor Walkway.
Whittlesea mayor Mary Lalios, Crime Prevention Minister Edward O’Donohue and Northern Metropolitan Region MP Craig Ondarchie last week opened the first of two stages of upgrades to one of Lalor’s busiest pedestrian thoroughfares.
The popular walkway between Station Street and May Road now has defined zones for pedestrians and traders, is better lit and has new paving, low-energy LED lighting, upgraded signage, rubbish bins, seating options and a pergola. Underground drainage and electricity have also been replaced.
The state government and council contributed equally to fund the $500,000 project. The walkway has been transformed into a safer space for residents and traders, Mr O’Donohue said. “By partnering with the City of Whittlesea we have been able to transform the walkway into a much more comfortable, amenable and, most importantly, safe area.”
Noella Jacobs, of the Lalor Traders Association, reinforced the community’s safety concerns. “We’ve been waiting for changes for over 30 years,” Mrs Jacobs said.
Cr Lalios said: “While work continues to improve the streetscape in Lalor, it’s great that all residents and visitors can enjoy the improved walkway. The improved lighting is a significant measure to make it safer.”
The council is awaiting additional funding from the government before work starts on the next stage of the redevelopment. Stage two, between the rear laneway and May Road, requires about $600,000.
