Towns could get lower speed limits

SPEED limits in parts of Anglesea, Aireys Inlet, Fairhaven and Moggs Creek could drop as low as 20kmh in some places, according to the results of a review released by the Surf Coast Shire.

The speed review, which did not include the Great Ocean Road, began in April with a community survey, and the shire stated the results of this survey guided the independent specialist analysis to ensure local insights were considered alongside road safety standards.

The shire has released two reports onto its website: a “what we heard” report, which summarises community feedback from the engagement survey conducted in April and May; and a consultant report outlining the technical assessment.

Speed limits in most parts of the four coastal towns are recommended to drop from 50kmh to 40kmh and 30kmh, as well as some 20kmh parking zones.

 

Cr Leon Walker said the recommended speed reductions reflected what many in the community have been calling for.

“Residents have consistently told us they want safer streets where people can walk and cycle comfortably.”

“These recommendations balance safety, accessibility and the unique character of our coastal towns.”

The speed changes will now be submitted to Department of Transport and Planning for approval, which is expected by the end of the year.

Between February and June, the new speed limits will be implemented in a staged approach in Aireys Inlet, Moggs Creek, Fairhaven and Point Roadknight and Anglesea East

The speed changes in the residential precincts west and north of the Great Ocean Road in Anglesea (Noble Street and Camp Road areas) require additional infrastructure, including raised intersection treatments to support the changes, and are subject to future funding.

The project was supported by funding from Department of Transport and Planning.

Meanwhile, Wannon Liberal federal member Dan Tehan is objecting to an Albanese Government proposal to lower the default speed limits on all unposted roads outside of built-up areas, including his electorate.

The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts is seeking feedback on a proposal to lower the default 100km limit on roads without a sign-posted speed limit, with options ranging from 90kmh to 70kmh on sealed roads and 80kmh to 70kmh on unsealed roads.

Mr Tehan described the proposal as a lazy approach to road safety reform.

“Regional Australia’s economy is on the line here. Government has an obligation to protect the lives of every Australian, so they should get on with it and fund rural roads,” he said.

Submissions to the review close on Monday, November 10.

For more information or to make a submission, head to infrastructure.gov.au/have-your-say/regulatory-impact-analysis-reduce-open-road-default-speed-limit