News article: Only a fence will come between a Footscray family and a new hospital car park

Continuing media coverage is highlighting the negative impact a car park entrance in Eleanor Street will have on residents.

Last week's Maribyrnong Leader focussed on Jessica Cubias and her family, mum Hong Chai and brother David, who would be the worst affected. The article can be read below or by following this link.

Only a fence will come between a Footscray family and a new hospital car park

BRIDIE BYRNE
MARIBYRNONG LEADER
OCTOBER 08, 2013

A FOOTSCRAY family say they are bracing for a traffic nightmare as a wooden fence will be all that separates their house from a new hospital car park.

Maribyrnong Council is building a hospital precinct car park with 282 spaces despite community outrage over its entry and exit points in Eleanor St.

The 24-hour parking lot, set to open in November, will be at the site of the council's former depot behind Western Hospital.

Jessica Cubias said her family, including mum Hong Chai and brother David, would be the worst affected.

"My mother bought this house more than 15 years ago and never thought this was going to happen," she said.

"It's impracticable and insane to have an access way between two properties.''

The council predicts traffic movements will rise by about 15 per cent or 598 vehicles.

Ms Cubias said the lack of consultation by the council had caused undue stress.

Residents were first notified about the access point in a letter sent out on August 20, which stated construction would begin the following week.

"We have felt really powerless against such a big council," she said. "We are considering seeking legal advice and even approaching the ombudsman."

Ms Cubias said the car park entrance should be down a main road such as Gordon St.

Mayor Catherine Cumming said Eleanor St was the most direct route to the car park but conceded consultations with residents could have beenbetter.

She said the council was reviewing parking restrictions in the hospital precinct to provide more off-street parking for those with permits.

Council strategic marketing manager Morris Bellamy said trees would also be planted to help act as a buffer.

Residents have started an online campaign at carparkcowboys.blogspot.com.au

Did the council choose the right access point? Have your say below or emailmaribyrnong@leadernewspapers.com.au