The Port Phillip City Council's meeting on December 6, 2023, turned into a fervent forum for local voices with more than twenty residents and traders asked questions regarding their deep concerns over the proposed Inkerman Street bike lanes. Residents were responding to bicycle lane design options which were published for community feedback. Council will collate the feedback and vote on the matter in early 2024. The design options intend to promote sustainable transport, faced scrutiny for its potential impact on parking, local businesses, and community safety.

Residents highlighted the reduction of up to 116 vital parking spaces and the challenges this would pose for businesses, fearing a decline in customer visits and trade. Concerns about access for deliveries and tradespeople were also raised, emphasising the practical necessities for the smooth operation of local enterprises.

Another significant issue was the plan's impact on waste management. The proposed bike lanes, according to the community, could complicate essential services such as garbage collection, disrupting the neighborhood's routine.

Safety concerns were paramount, especially for vulnerable groups like people with mobility difficulties, the elderly and children. The community questioned the council's safety measures, advocating for the protection of these groups amidst the proposed changes.

Council officers responses were seen as insufficient, leading to the intervention of the council's CEO who reassured residents that their feedback would be taken into consideration before the final decision is made. The CEO indicated there were around 1,000 responses for the Inkerman Street survey compared to about 200 for the St Kilda Triangle music venue proposal, indicating significantly more community engagement over the Inkerman Street controversy. This highlighted the need for a more inclusive approach in urban planning, considering the community's needs and concerns.

This meeting underscored the challenges urban councils face in balancing traffic management with community interests. The Inkerman Street proposal, while promoting sustainable transportation, revealed a need for a more empathetic approach to change. The council now faces the task of reconciling these concerns with the goal of sustainable development.

The council must now navigate these concerns carefully, ensuring that any future plans align with the community's needs and aspirations.