By Briar Sinclair
HOBSONS Bay City Council has no intention of reopening a road block between Murphy and Duke streets in Altona North.
A former maternal and child health centre stands on the block at 24 Murphy St, which is currently fenced.
The land was sold at auction in February to a developer proposing to build 10 units on the site.
Residents have objected to the development, but were concerned that the road could be reopened if the development did not go ahead.
“I remember before it was closed,” Murphy St resident Gerry Ryan told Star.
“It was a dangerous street because it took constant through traffic.
“I could see trucks storming through Murphy St if it was reopened.”
However, the council said there were no plans to reopen a road block between Murphy and Duke streets.
Residents have lodged 25 objections to the council against the two applications for the 10unit development.
One of their concerns is that the development would put further strain on an already congested area around Borrack Square, which backs onto Murphy St.
A council spokesman said the two applications were still being assessed.
He said the council was not sure if they would be decided under officer delegation or would be reported to the Special Planning Committee for a decision.
“Once the assessment process is complete, council will advise which course of action it will take,” he said.
The council is currently preparing a Draft Access and Parking Strategy for Borrack Square and surrounds.
It is anticipated that this draft will be taken to Council in late October.
