Locking out boxes

The City of Melbourne is playing an active role in removing illegal lock-boxes from public infrastructure, which are used to carry keys for short-stay apartments.

A number of locals contacted Southbank Local News this month, who had reportedly spotted council workers removing lock boxes from tree fencing, bike racks and street furniture along City Rd and surrounds.

Local residents and independent short-stay operators, who are opposed to their use, have welcomed the move.

“The City of Melbourne is aware that some organisers of short stay accommodation services provide their guests keys to their pre-booked apartment building using box-key combination locks,” a council spokesperson told Southbank Local News.

“As many buildings cannot be accessed without a key, in recent months there have been large numbers of these locks being placed on council and public facilities such as bike racks, street furniture and tree surrounds.”

“In response to complaints, the City of Melbourne has directed its contractors to remove any locks illegally attached to public infrastructure.”