Backlash against proposal of 'injecting room' in Melbourne CBD

Flinders street could potentially host the next 'heroin injecting room'.

Victorian Health Minister Martin Foley has already ruled out several possible options among Flinders Street, including Enterprize Park.

"So nothing is ruled in and nothing is ruled out," he told the ABC.

Originally the room was to be set up near the Queen Victoria Market, more towards the northern areas of the CBD but a new report in the Herald Sun said it was to be expected to be at the southern end of the city on Flinders Streets, west of Swanston Street.

Several business owners have come forward to shut down the idea. Tony Doherty, owner of Doherty's Gym on Flinders Street, expressed his distaste.

"It's a terrible place for it...I can't think of a worse spot," he said.

In contrast to this, Ben Vasiliou, the chief executive of the youth projects charity commented on how there was overwhelming evidence that a safe injecting room was needed, and that having it at the southern end of Flinders Street made sense.

Furthermore, Labor MP Gabrielle Williams backed up Foley's commenting, stating there are no currently plans for a site at Enterprize Park. She then added the need for an injecting room in the CBD was crucial.

"There is about a heroin death a month in that area."

State opposition leader Michael O'Brien said it would be "madness" to set up another injecting room when the current one in North Richmond isn't functioning accordingly.

"Why would you take that same flawed model to Melbourne CBD? The heart of Melbourne is struggling

Just last week it was reported that Victorian crossbench MP Fiona Patten advocated safe injecting rooms for St Kilda, Footscray and Dandenong.

Adding to her statement, Acting Premier James Merlino said the government does not support expanding the program beyond a second site.

The current injection room in North Richmond has been controversial due to how close it is to a school. Other than that, Merlino insists that the center is crucial for saving lives.

Author's (Angelina) opinion: An injecting room would be perfect to add into the CBD as it can rise to be a heroin hot spot, as long as it is not placed near schools or disrupting small businesses I don't see an issue.