Lower speed limit to protect pedestrians in Brewarrina
Transport for NSW Director West Alistair Lunn said a High Pedestrian Activity Area (HPAA) would be introduced from tomorrow, Wednesday 12 October, with the support of NSW Police to improve safety in the community.
“Transport for NSW was asked by Brewarrina Shire Council to review the current 50 km/h speed limit through the centre of town, with a focus on pedestrian safety,” Mr Lunn said.
“Bathurst Street, which forms part of the Kamilaroi Highway, runs through the centre of Brewarrina.
“On the southern side of the highway there’s a mix of homes and businesses including a bank, pharmacy, food outlets, medical clinics and public amenities.
“On the northern side there’s a tourism precinct including an information centre, a memorial park with a new skate park, sporting facilities and the Aboriginal Culture Museum which is used as a community gathering area.
“Further to the east is the local police station and introducing a 40 km/h speed limit through this area will ensure there’s safe passage for pedestrians.”
The introduction of a HPAA is a proactive approach to lower speeds heightening driver awareness of pedestrians accessing retail and social services in the area, and reducing severity, should accidents occur.
The reduced speed limit will take effect from 65 metres west of Darling Street to 90 metres west of Belmore Street, also encompassing Young, Doyle, Sandon and Bourke streets.
“The Kamilaroi Highway through Brewarrina links to the New England Highway and with no heavy vehicle alternatives there are a significant number of heavy vehicles passing through the town centre each day,” Mr Lunn said.
“The newly opened skatepark has dramatically increased the number of children accessing the CBD after school hours and this is one step we can take to help protect community members without any significant impact on travel time for freight operators or cars.”
Signs have been installed to alert motorists of the reduced speed limits and new High Pedestrian Activity Areas, which take effect on Wednesday October 12.
Members of the community can sign up to receive the latest updates on speed limits changes in their nominated area and to have their say.