Green Square, located some two kilometres away from Kensington, is undertaking a significant development which could see the Zetland area evolve into a progressive precinct but vulnerable residents are concerned about a potential loss of parking spaces, especially on Portman Street.
The City of Sydney Council’s plans to develop a cycleway at the Green Square precinct to encourage biking as a healthier means of transport. Whilst this may reduce the number of cars and decongest the roads, the older population living in the tree-lined terrace homes on Portman Street said they will be most affected by the plan.
If some 90 street parking spots are replaced by cycleways, elderly and vulnerable residents will have a harder time leaving their houses. Since they cannot use bikes, they will still need cars to get around. With less available parking slots, they will be forced to park their cars in other areas and walk back home. Many of these residents cannot manage a long walk home, particularly if they have to carry bags of groceries on foot.
Parking will also become a problem for elderly residents who rely on grocery deliveries and similar services as there will be more competition for other parking spots off Portman Street. Additionally, the development of residential buildings in Green Square could drive the older population out of this Zetland section.
A spokesperson for the Council said that parking concerns are under review as the upgrades to Portman Street continue. The development will also cover Sonny Leonard Street, Geddes Avenue and Zetland Avenue.
Work on this precinct promises to deliver:
- better footpaths and new cycleways
- new street furniture, smart poles and plants
- three signalised intersections on Zetland Avenue
- one signalised intersection at Geddes Avenue and Portman Street
- changes to parking on Portman Street
- underground electrical lines
The project started in September 2020 and will be completed in 18 months.
