By NOEL MURPHY
PARKING charges at Barwon Health’s McKellar Centre threaten a fatal traffic accident on Ballarat Rd, Australian Nursing Federation has warned.
Federation organiser Mal Dwyer said staff parking along the road and in nearby residential streets to avoid the centre’s new fees of close to $1000 a year were causing massive congestion at peak traffic times.
“I’m waiting for someone to die from a serious accident, that’s how bad it is,” Mr Dwyer said.
“To attempt to drive out of McArthur Ave or Calvert St, especially between 8am and 9am – with all the school traffic to Kardinia College, all the people going to work, all the traffic to Western Heights, all those cars in Ballarat Rd – it’s a serious issue.”
The ANF concern follows a recent slashing of tyres on staff cars parked along Ballarat Rd.
Mr Dwyer said a Barwon Health shuttle service failed to cater for all staff, notably workers finishing shifts late in the evening.
He expressed concerns the vandalism response to car parking encroaching on residential areas might escalate.
“It’s not only a road safety issue, it’s a personal safety issue.
“If had tyres have been slashed, obviously some people believe that’s an appropriate type of conduct even when parking on streets is perfectly legal.
“My concern is that the vast majority members at McKellar are women and it concerns me that it might go further. If someone is willing to slash tyre, who knows.”
Barwon Health said it in talks with City of Greater Geelong about parking issues around the McKellar Centre.
Spokesperson Kate Nelson said Barwon Health was negotiating to meet the ANF next week about its latest concerns.
Ms Nelson encouraged staff to use secure parking at the centre.
“The fundamental reason for introducing a parking permit system at the McKellar Centre was to improve on-site car parking for the community, ultimately resulting in better access.
“Already we have seen significant improvements in parking availability for our clients and residents, most of who are elderly, infirm or have mobility issues.”’
The City is assessing responses to an online questionnaire of nearby residents and traders.
City services manager Gary Van Driel said council would install three-hour time limit signage at Milton St’s shopping strip for motorists using the off-street car park.
A two-hour limit would apply for on-street parking near the shops.
Mr Van Driel said City officers were continuing to monitor the streets around the McKellar Centre.
