Changed speed limits on Forest Reefs Road for safer trips through Millthorpe

Transport for NSW conducted a speed zone review along a 750-metre section of Forest Reefs Road following a request from Blayney Shire Council due to concerns about ongoing development in the area.



Transport for NSW Regional Director West Alistair Lunn said the review assessed a number of factors including location, crash history, road environment, the number of access points, road usage, traffic mix and traffic volumes.



The review area included 175 metres of road with an existing speed limit of 50 km/h and a 575-metre section with an 80 km/h speed limit, and recommended the entire length be changed to 60 km/h.



“Forest Reefs Road is a sealed, undivided two-way road that not only supports traffic movements to local homes and passing through the Forest Reefs village, but also traffic travelling to and from the Cadia gold mine,” Mr Lunn said.



“While there had been no crashes recorded between 1 July 2019 and 31 December 2023, the review determined that the number of private accesses on the 80 km/h section of Forest Reefs Road and inadequate sight distances meant a reduction to 60 km/h would be appropriate.



“At the same time, it was decided to increase the speed limit on the 50 km/h section of the review area to 60 km/h for greater speed consistency and a better match with existing road conditions.



“The cumulative changes will add only six seconds to a typical journey along the full 750-metre section of Forest Reefs Road.”



Mr Lunn said speed limits across NSW were set to ensure motorists travel at a safe and appropriate speed for the surrounding road environment, and to allow time for drivers travelling at the limit to detect a hazard and react quickly enough to brake or take evasive action.



“This reduces the risk of a crash occurring and means there’s a greater chance of people surviving in the unfortunate event of a collision,” Mr Lunn said.



The new speed limit at Forest Reefs Road will come into effect on Thursday 5 September and new signage will be installed to advise motorists and pedestrians of the changes.



Members of the community can sign up here to receive the latest updates to receive the latest updates on speed limits changes in their nominated area and to have their say on speed limits.