Locals demand action after fatal hit and run

MORE than 500 people have signed a petition calling for safety upgrades along Keith Street and Raftons Road in Bangalow, which was the site of a fatal hit-and-run in July.

Byron Shire Councillor Asren Pugh, who is also a Bangalow resident, will table the petition at the upcoming Council meeting on August 28.

The petition was launched by local resident Yvette Gregory following the death of much-loved community member Paul ‘Campo’ Campton in the incident on July 6.

“I felt like there had been a lot of discussion around that stretch of road and after losing Campo it was a way of directing energy into trying to make something positive out of such a terrible incident,” Ms Gregory said.

“While it won’t bring Campo back it will hopefully prevent something like this happening again.”

Byron Shire Council already has a proposal in place to construct a footpath along Raftons Road and nearby Leslie Street, as well as a pedestrian crossing in front of the Bangalow Community Children’s Centre, but is awaiting grant funding.

“It’s extremely frustrating,” Ms Gregory said. “Unfortunately infrastructure costs are expensive, which is why we hope this petition helps the cause. Obviously we are looking for council funding, but also state and federal funding.”

The Council also has access to $100,000 through the Fatal Crash Response Funding program, but any spending must still go through a planning and approval process to determine the most appropriate use of the funds.

Ms Gregory outlined a proposed three-stage plan for improvements. Stage one would include lowering the speed limit, replacing the give way sign at the Leslie Street and Raftons Road intersection with a stop sign and installing electronic radar speed warning signs.

Stage two would involve building a shared path, installing the pedestrian crossing and improving street lighting, taking into consideration the local wildlife.

Stage three would focus on additional traffic calming and reduction measures.

While the petition had to be formally submitted two weeks prior to the Council meeting, Ms Gregory said people can still show their support by signing at several local businesses, including Bangalow General Store, Julie Strefkuss Osteo, Bangalow Hotel, Woods, Bangalow Cellar and The Bowlo.