New smoking ban proposed for one of Australia's busiest streets
Melbourne’s CBD could be subject to a new smoking ban after a recent survey showed overwhelming support for restrictions.
Bourke Street between Elizabeth Street and Russell Place is expected to become Melbourne’s 11th smoke-free area after a report was put forward to Melbourne City Council’s Future Melbourne Committee for deliberation next week.
Over 3000 people were asked on their views on implementing a smoking ban in the area, with 83 per cent backing the idea. More than 1000 responded while on Bourke Street.
There was a similar response from surrounding businesses in the proposed area, with 83 per cent again in support.
“I would love to see the streets free of cigarette butts. It’s disgusting that they are everywhere!” one business owner told the study.
Sixty-seven per cent of smokers said they were either neutral or supportive of the proposal.
The report also gathered data from social media posts on Facebook and Instagram with similar results.
A City of Melbourne committee will on Tuesday vote on whether to give the change the green light.
Of those against the proposal, some worried about what alternatives would be provided for smokers.
Others were concerned about the perceived impact of the ban on international students and people experiencing homelessness.
But taking into account the relatively low opposition overall, the ban was recommended.
"Prescribing smoke-free areas directly supports council's commitment to protect the community from passive smoking," says the report to councillors on the Future Melbourne Committee set to vote on the idea.
Introducing the ban would cost $50,000.
There are already 10 designated smoke-free areas in the CBD, including QV Melbourne, Block Place, Collins Way and The Tan, and Princes Park running tracks.
With AAP
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