City of Palmerston is seeking community feedback on its draft Council Policy, Laneway Management Policy. The purpose of this policy is to preserve the network of laneways within the City and guide decision-making regarding current laneways under trial and responses to future requests for laneway closures

In 2019 Council instigated a series of treatment trials: as a result, 21 laneways currently have a form of treatment in place; seven have temporary full-time closures; twelve have night-time closures and two had lighting installed.

Research has indicated that there is no standard approach by authorities to the management of laneways. The implementation of these trials has produced a mix of temporary, part-time or full-time closures. Currently no methodology for assessment of effectiveness, other than the monitoring of police statistics and anecdotal information, is in place. 

The draft policy aims to engage with relevant government agencies to address anti-social behaviour before considering permanent closures. It also sets out criteria required for Council to assess a laneway, including a financial contribution from abutting landowners should a laneway be considered for permanent closure.

Consultation
The draft Laneway Management Policy was available for public comment for a four-week period, with the consultation open from 23 September and closing on 12 October 2020. 

Council is now considering feedback. 

Key documentation
Draft Laneway Management Policy
Laneway Policy Fact Sheet
Flow chart