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The major east-west bike corridor through the Melbourne CBD will remain closed for more than another week

Tram track and overhead power line renewal in the precinct surrounding the La Trobe Street and Spencer Street intersection is completely closed to traffic.

The shutdown lasts until Monday 19 April 2021.

The area closed includes La Trobe Street between King Street and Harbour Esplanade and Spencer Street between Jeffcott Street and Lonsdale Street, Melbourne.

These sections of tram track have been identified for urgent renewal.

The closure will create a major dislocation for those riders commuting to the city from the west via the Footscray Road route.

A puzzling detour route map has been provided, but appears to be completely unsuitable, placing riders on the King Street arterial.

This appears to have resulted in riders taking to the footpaths – remember there is a police station at the corner of La Trobe and Spencer Street.

There are some safe options for riders, however they will involve significant route changes.

For riders coming into the city via Footscray Road, you have the option of going further south and using Collins Street to head east.

Alternatively, you could switch in Footscray to the Dynon Road off-road path and come into the city via North Melbourne, using Dynon Road, Lloyd Street, Arden Street, Abbotsford Street and Queensberry Street.

When heading outbound simply reverse the direction.

If you are heading west on La Trobe during this time, make sure you turn off at William Street, before you get to King Street.

Yarra Trams says the track renewal works will deliver improved ride, comfort and safety for passengers, and quieter infrastructure.

The work zone will be fenced off for safety, however footpaths will remain open around the work area to allow pedestrian access to businesses and residences.

There will be kerb to kerb fencing which will limit pedestrian crossings.

Crossing points will be facilitated where possible and may change depending on the construction activities taking place.