Residents living near a notorious Maidstone intersection claim it is a constant source of anxiety.
Software engineer Shakir Meah Mohaseen and his wife have lived near the junction of Hampstead Road, Emu Road and Crefden Street for nearly four years.
“We have witnessed numerous near-fatal incidents at this intersection, and it is a constant source of anxiety,” Mr Mohasseen said.
“It’s the story of every local resident who navigates this dangerous crossroads.”
According to Mr Mohassen, that’s a daily necessity for local residents in order to access essential services.
“Nestled nearby are a childcare centre, an aged care facility, a gym, dental and medical clinics, a kids swim school, bustling local businesses, and a key bus stop that links us to Footscray station,” he said.
“These amenities bring together residents of all ages, from the very young to the elderly, making pedestrian safety of utmost importance.”
But with lane closures caused by construction of the new Maidstone tram depot and a drive-through fast food outlet also opening, Mr Mohasseen said the intersection had recently become even more dangerous, forcing he and his neighbours to launch a petition calling on the state government and Maribyrnong council to install safety features.
“A pedestrian crossing would be a start, but it wouldn’t make it safe for vehicles, so the ideal solution would be traffic lights,” said Mr Mohassen of what he’d like to see done, adding that there was currently nothing.
“There’s a give way sign and that’s it.”
Maribyrnong mayor Pradeep Tiwari said Hampstead Road was an arterial road that was the responsibility of the state government, but that council had been working with the Department of Transport and Planning on options such as widening it or adding traffic lights.
“The project will be partially funded by developer contributions, however additional funds are required to deliver this project,” Cr Tiwari said.
“Council continues to advocate for funding from the State Government to support the upgrade of this intersection.”
ADTP spokesperson said the department was working with Maribyrnong council on possible short-term and long-term improvements.
