The Clutha District Council service delivery committee met in Balclutha on Thursday and discussed a trial taking place at the George St exit to an unnamed service lane that runs parallel to the town’s Clyde St.
The lane serves several large businesses and their delivery trucks, but is also used by shoppers to access parking and public toilets.
In the past, that has caused road safety issues, leading the council to trial an exit-only limitation at the George St end from late October last year.
In his report to the committee on Thursday, council transport and facilities operations manager Henri van Zyl said initial indications were that the trial had "not been overly successful".
"This is due to a lack of compliance by the public and issues regarding loading and unloading due to truck configurations," he said.
Mr van Zyl said the council would now seek feedback from affected businesses and explore further adjustments to the trial to address issues identified.
Clutha Mayor Bryan Cadogan suggested the public should also be asked for their views.
"I’m not surprised the one-way set-up hasn’t been successful, because [the lane is] regarded as a thoroughfare.
"At present, we’re benefiting a handful of businesses at the expense of the irritation of the public.
"We need to go back and consult the public as well as the businesses. This is one of the most-used council roads in Balclutha."
Council chief executive Steve Hill said issues had arisen due to the public misunderstanding the lane’s purpose.
"It’s not a road, it’s a service lane. It’s been used as a road by the public, with resulting health and safety issues.
"We should acknowledge public expectations are probably higher than they should be of what is only a service lane."
Councillors voiced support for continued safety measures.
Cr Alison Ludemann said the lane was an "extremely dangerous" section of road.
"Visibility is poor leaving that end. I don’t believe it should be a thoroughfare for everybody."
Cr Stewart Cowie agreed.
"I don’t really see the need for locals to be using it. There are other ways to access that shopping area," he said.
Any proposals for changes to the trial will be brought before the council at a later meeting.
