Three people have been hospitalised in the last week after accidents on Eureka Street near the intersections with Otway and King Streets. Nearby residents said yesterday they are concerned a fatal collision might not be far away.

Homeowner Kerryn Weightman said she was concerned one of her children could be injured.

“Around 10 years ago some of us put together a petition calling on council to fix the road but all they did was add white lines and it hasn’t worked. You only have to look at how fast people are travelling to see that it won’t be long before something very bad happens here,” Ms Weightman said.

Terry Salter, who runs the nearby Eureka Street Fish Shop, said he was concerned for his customers’ safety.

“The road is only getting busier and when people speed and don’t give proper warnings of turning, it’s no wonder these crashes are happening,” he said.

Local resident Frank Neilsen has begun taking photos of accidents near his home to document the problem.

“You need to put in at least one roundabout or other mechanism to slow people down along the street,” he said.

Senior Sergeant Pat Cleary of the Ballarat Highway Patrol said extra patrols would begin in the area.

“Police will have a close look at causes and in consultation with council see if we can do anything about that part of Eureka Street to make a difference.”

City of Ballarat mayor Mark Harris said he was aware Eureka Street had traffic management issues.

“Eureka Street has long stretches and becomes almost semi-rural as traffic is heading out of town,” he said. “With the change of speed limits and impact on urban areas, drivers need to exercise caution.”

City of Ballarat Growth and Development Director Eric Braslis encouraged residents with concerns to contact council.