Residents forced to slow down across Pittwater
Northern Beaches Council’s proposed 30km/hr zones from Narrabeen to Mona Vale and 40km/hr from Avalon to Palm Beach have sparked a community debate, with over 400 submissions to a consultation.
As part of its Safer Neighbourhoods Program, council is introducing a 40km/ hr speed limit on all streets east of Pittwater Road, from Narrabeen Beach to Mona Vale Hospital.
Pittwater Greens councillor Miranda Korzy told PL that she ‘supports reducing speed limits in local neighbourhoods.’
“In much of Pittwater’s hilly terrain with lots of trees on road reserves, we don’t have footpaths, let alone bike paths,” Cr Korzy said. “So many of us are forced to walk or cycle on the roads, including parents with prams and elderly residents.”
Raised pedestrian crossings, kerb build-outs and traffic calming devices will also be introduced, along with line marking and signage in Narrabeen, especially along Ocean Street, Sydney Road and Narrabeen Park Parade.
Narrabeen Ward councillor Vincent De Luca said he was ‘pleased’ that council was pursuing safety concerns raised by those in the community who had witnessed near-miss accidents on Ocean Street.
“Speeding has become a significant risk to public safety on Ocean Street,” Cr De Luca said. “Raised pedestrian crossings and traffic calming infrastructure is desperately needed.
“Locals are constantly complaining that they fear for their own and other’s safety, particularly considering that there is a preschool, aged care homes, seniors living and two surf clubs on the street.”
Cr De Luca said the proposals warranted close review and consideration by the community.
A 30km limit is also being introduced in some sections of the Avalon to Palm Beach route, and a 10km zone in high pedestrian beachfront car parking areas.
Council is also considering adding a raised pedestrian crossing at Whale Beach Road, near the intersection with Barrenjoey Road, and new street lighting to improve safety and visibility for drivers and pedestrians. Council will also re-align pram ramps and improve some lane widths and line marking.
Traffic calming infrastructure, combined with an improved road layout, aimed to reduce vehicle speeds ‘naturally,’ council said.
There will be a community information session at the Avalon Recreation Centre on Saturday 9 November from 9am to 11am.
Council has extended online feedback on the changes until 24 November.
