Pedestrian safety to be improved on East Parade

THE State Government will spend $300,000 for a new pedestrian crossing on East Parade at East Perth train station.

Planning Minister Donna Faragher said the traffic-light crosswalk, with a break in the middle of East Parade, would ensure the safety of pedestrians and road users.

“The Government aims for a safe and efficient road network as part of an integrated transport system for all road users, which includes cyclists, pedestrians, and people with disabilities, promoting the environmental, health and economic benefits of walking,” Ms Faragher said.

Mt Lawley MLA Michael Sutherland said concerns had been raised by residents on the eastern side of East Parade about crossing the busy road to the train station, especially during peak periods.

Labor candidate for Mt Lawley Simon Millman said it made sense that a crossing was required, “given safety concerns from local residents, increased pedestrian movements associated with the new Perth Stadium and train station upgrades”.

“This is the sort of work that transport authorities undertake all the time when demand is identified. The crossing is obviously required – it seems odd that it has become a Liberal Party election promise,” he said.

The crossing comes in addition to a planned $25 million upgrade of the station as part of the public transport program needed for the new Perth Stadium.

It is anticipated that 25 per cent of people using East Perth train station to get to and from the Stadium will walk across East Parade.