Douglas resident raises concerns about close calls with scooters and bikes
CLOSE CALLS
A CONCERNED Port Douglas resident has suggested widening local footpaths could prove a more safe and suitable option having described two recent close calls with bikes and scooters along parts of Macrossan St.
The resident who wishes to remain anonymous told Newsport two incidents in past days left her feeling a little uneasy and as such she believes there is a quick fix to the problem.
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“(Recently) I have been now nearly knocked to the ground by scooters (or) bikes twice on the footpath from town to four mile (beach),” the person explained to Newsport.
“They expect the walkers to move out of the way.
“(A) Simple solution (would be to) widen the footpath like it is in front of (the) cemetery all the way to IGA and draw a line - pedestrians (on) one side, scooters (and) bikes the other side.”
Newsport reached out to Douglas Shire Council about the matter.
“Douglas Shire Council has received no complaints about e-scooters on Macrossan Street in Port Douglas since July 1 this year,” Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr revealed.
“However, due to increased popularity of e-scooters, Council staff are looking at ways to improve how personal mobility devices are managed in Douglas Shire.
“Council worked with an e-scooter company to ensure riders only travel in places that will not cause a nuisance and can only operate under limited speed.
“For example, the hire e-scooters are GPS-tracked and cannot enter Macrossan Street.
“They also must be returned to a designated parking bay on private property, not just left anywhere for another user.
"The Queensland Government recently announced new safety measures which will come into effect on November 1 this year.
"Council welcomes these reforms and encourages riders to follow all laws put in place by the State Government."
You can read more about responsible E-scooter bike management at: https://www.qld.gov.au/transport/safety/rules/wheeled-devices/personal-mobility-devices
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