Bayswater Council will tonight consider amendments to the Morley Activity Centre Structure Plan, including the addition of a shared bus and cycle lane in both directions along Walter Road West.
Coventry Village owners are concerned that the proposed 4.9m road reserve could lead to the demolition of the outdoor dining area and building that would have a “catastrophic” impact on the centre.
In a submission to the City, Greg Poland, chairman of centre owners Strzelecki Group, said the proposed changes could create an environment “dominated by concrete and bitumen” adding nearly 10m extra width.
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“The major feature bisecting the Morley activity centre would be a stark, car-dominated environment which would increase dust, vehicle exhaust, visual and noise pollution,” the submission said.
“If the Coventry entry statement was damaged, people would be less likely to be attracted to the shops inside the Village.
“Remaining restaurant patrons’ amenity and eating and drinking experience would be impacted because of their closeness to Walter Road and passing traffic.”
Mr Poland said they would be forced to relocate its booster pump station and firefighting ring main, which cost $500,000 to install.
The council previously rejected the centre’s application for kiosks on Walter Road West, as these would be located in the new reserve.
But Mayor Barry McKenna said no part of Coventry Village would be demolished if the amendments were passed.
“Works to create the proposed shared bus/cycle lane and wider footpath would be limited to the paved and landscaped areas of the Coventry Village forecourt,” he said.
“The proposed road widening is to create a shared bus/cycle lane and a wider footpath to encourage the use of public transport, walking and cycling in the Morley town centre.
“The creation of a shared bus/cycle lane and wider footpath will encourage people to visit the Morley town centre and linger awhile.”