SKIPTON Street’s reputation as one of Ballarat’s most hazardous roads continues to grow, with the stretch now the site of 28 crashes since 2011.
A vehicle collision on Sunday at the Skipton and Leith intersection served as a stark reminder for motorists to take care, with VicRoads currently investigating future safety measures for the road.
Police confirmed a car travelling south on Skipton Street collided with another vehicle heading east on Leith Street on Sunday morning, resulting in two people sent to Ballarat Base Hospital – one with minor injuries and another for observation.
One of the vehicles also struck a VicRoads power box, impacting traffic lights for several hours. Inquiries into the cause of the accident are continuing.
Ballarat Highway Patrol Senior Sergeant Pat Cleary urged motorists to take care on the section.
“We’re aware that several collisions have taken place over the years,” he said.
“We’re asking for people to be extra cautious and take care.”
Right-hand turns and u-turns remain an issue on the road, both for safety reasons and disrupting traffic flow.
“Most of them are turning type collisions, so we urge people to take extra care when turning on or off Skipton Street,” Senior Sergeant Cleary said.
VicRoads Regional Director Ewen Nevett said the latest accident strengthens the case for improved safety.
“While VicRoads is yet to receive details from police regarding the circumstances of this latest crash on Skipton Street, it further highlights the need to improve the safety and traffic flow along this busy road,” he said.
VicRoads held a community consultation session last week to discuss safety measures.
While Mr Nevett did not say what VicRoads’ preferred measure is, options that have been put forward include creating a solid median along Skipton Street to make safer right turning and u-turn areas, traffic lights at Sebastopol Street which would also provide safer turning opportunities, signalised pedestrian crossing facilities and closing the Errard Street intersection.
“VicRoads is also carrying out its own research and investigation into crash history data along this particular stretch, between Rubicon Street and Urquhart Street, and all of this will be considered along with community feedback when evaluating priorities for future improvements,” Mr Nevett said.
“It is important for all of us to work together to achieve the best outcome for Skipton Street and help ensure that everyone arrives safely at their destination.”
Feedback can be provided on 5333 8743 or by searching the VicRoads Facebook page for the relevant post on June 16.
Michael Pollock
Transport and infrastructure reporter.
Transport and infrastructure reporter.
