Victory for Residents: Discover the 'Useless' Road Feature That Sparked Outrage and Forced an Aussie Council to Retreat!
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In a triumph for community action, the residents of Coogee, a picturesque suburb in Sydney's eastern beaches, have successfully campaigned against a contentious road feature that had become the bane of their daily commute. After enduring years of frustration and vehicular mishaps, the locals can finally breathe a sigh of relief as the council has removed the infamous concrete planter box, which had caused numerous accidents.
The planter box in question was situated at the intersection of Arden Street and Coogee Bay Road, a bustling area frequented by beachgoers and locals alike. Its presence in the middle of the road was not only an eyesore but also a hazard. The box, which alternated between housing a tree and being empty due to alleged vandalism, was surrounded by concrete blocks intended to protect it. However, these blocks turned into inadvertent obstacles for drivers, leading to damaged cars and mounting complaints.
For over two years, the community voiced their concerns, labelling the planter box as 'useless' and questioning the council's decision to place a tree in the left-hand lane of a busy thoroughfare. Despite the growing outcry, the Randwick City Council initially stood by their urban beautification effort, claiming that 'trees add a lot of value to an urban environment' and that the blocks served as a wheel stop for parking spots.
Yet, as accidents continued to occur, with one local resident citing 'three cars that have smashed' into it in just one week, the council's stance began to waver. The planter box not only posed a risk to drivers but also obstructed the view of oncoming traffic and pedestrians, particularly at such a critical intersection.
The turning point came when images surfaced online showing contractors paving over the notorious spot. This development was met with jubilation from the eastern suburbs community, who had long campaigned for its removal. Comments poured in on social media, with residents expressing their relief and satisfaction at the council's decision to finally address the issue. 'Well done — stupid bloody idea to put it there in the first place,' one man said, encapsulating the sentiment of many.
A council spokesperson confirmed the removal of the planter box, citing the challenges of vandalism and the harsh coastal environment as factors in their decision. 'Given these ongoing issues, Council is removing the tree and the tree surround,' they stated.
While the community celebrates this victory, some remain cautious, humorously speculating that the council might replace the planter box with something even more cumbersome. But for now, the residents of Coogee can enjoy a safer and more aesthetically pleasing intersection, a testament to the power of persistent civic engagement.
This story serves as a reminder that when it comes to urban planning and community safety, the voices of the residents are invaluable. It's a narrative that resonates with many of us who have encountered similar 'useless' features in our own neighborhoods. Have you experienced a similar situation where a well-intentioned road feature turned out to be more of a nuisance than a benefit? Share your stories with us, and let's discuss the importance of balancing urban beautification with practicality and safety.
The planter box in question was situated at the intersection of Arden Street and Coogee Bay Road, a bustling area frequented by beachgoers and locals alike. Its presence in the middle of the road was not only an eyesore but also a hazard. The box, which alternated between housing a tree and being empty due to alleged vandalism, was surrounded by concrete blocks intended to protect it. However, these blocks turned into inadvertent obstacles for drivers, leading to damaged cars and mounting complaints.
Coogee Council removed the controversial concrete planter box after accidents and complaints. Credit: Facebook
For over two years, the community voiced their concerns, labelling the planter box as 'useless' and questioning the council's decision to place a tree in the left-hand lane of a busy thoroughfare. Despite the growing outcry, the Randwick City Council initially stood by their urban beautification effort, claiming that 'trees add a lot of value to an urban environment' and that the blocks served as a wheel stop for parking spots.
Yet, as accidents continued to occur, with one local resident citing 'three cars that have smashed' into it in just one week, the council's stance began to waver. The planter box not only posed a risk to drivers but also obstructed the view of oncoming traffic and pedestrians, particularly at such a critical intersection.
The turning point came when images surfaced online showing contractors paving over the notorious spot. This development was met with jubilation from the eastern suburbs community, who had long campaigned for its removal. Comments poured in on social media, with residents expressing their relief and satisfaction at the council's decision to finally address the issue. 'Well done — stupid bloody idea to put it there in the first place,' one man said, encapsulating the sentiment of many.
A council spokesperson confirmed the removal of the planter box, citing the challenges of vandalism and the harsh coastal environment as factors in their decision. 'Given these ongoing issues, Council is removing the tree and the tree surround,' they stated.
While the community celebrates this victory, some remain cautious, humorously speculating that the council might replace the planter box with something even more cumbersome. But for now, the residents of Coogee can enjoy a safer and more aesthetically pleasing intersection, a testament to the power of persistent civic engagement.
This story serves as a reminder that when it comes to urban planning and community safety, the voices of the residents are invaluable. It's a narrative that resonates with many of us who have encountered similar 'useless' features in our own neighborhoods. Have you experienced a similar situation where a well-intentioned road feature turned out to be more of a nuisance than a benefit? Share your stories with us, and let's discuss the importance of balancing urban beautification with practicality and safety.
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