A lowered speed limit on Remembrance Drive is not enough for driver safety, Cardigan Village residents say, after VicRoads introduced a new 80km/h limit at a notoriously dangerous intersection this week.
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The approach to the Madden Road, Weighbridge Road and Remembrance Drive intersection at Cardigan Village has been reduced from 100km/h to 80km/h.
The change comes after years of community campaigning for improvements to safety on Remembrance Drive.
There have been three deaths on the road since 2010 – all involving high speeds and trees.
The Madden Road intersection has been the site of eight crashes in the past 10 years.
Cardigan Village resident Robert said he was glad to see the speed change implemented, but more needed to be done at the intersection.
“More than 10 years ago when a lady was killed I said they should put in a roundabout. It is a horrible intersection,” he said.
Robert’s call has been supported by other Cardigan Village residents, many who have seen or been first respondents to car accidents near their homes.
Resident Fiona Smith said too many drivers at the intersection don’t give way.
“A round about with lights would be good, one that is big enough that will slow down trucks and cars. Coming to winter and foggy conditions it’s very hard to see who is coming from either way,” she said.
VicRoads will create right hand turn lanes at the intersection and additional signage at both northern and southern approaches.
City of Ballarat councillor Daniel Moloney said Remembrance Drive should continue to be a focus for driver safety.
“I was out bike riding with one of my kids last year and arrived shortly after a father with his kids crashed into a tree on Remembrance Drive,” he said.
Something needed to be done.
- Cr Daniel Moloney
VicRoads conducted community consultation in August 2017 for a proposed 80km speed limit for the entire Remembrance Drive, which failed to gain community support.
Part of the road’s safety problem centres on the Avenue of Honour trees, which are close to the road shoulder.
Arch of Victory and Avenue of Honour Committee president Bruce Price said the committee supported an 80km/h limit along the entire Remembrance Drive.
The committee remain opposed to the installation of barriers.
Rochelle Kirkham
Rochelle covers court and has a particular interest in social issues including homelessness, food security and family violence.
Rochelle covers court and has a particular interest in social issues including homelessness, food security and family violence.
