Traffic jam a Heads ache
FRUSTRATED drivers are being forced to crawl through a 4km traffic jam from Barwon Heads to Ocean Grove, caused by contentious pedestrian crossings, locals say.
But Bellarine state Labor MP Lisa Neville said the safety of pedestrians in the popular tourist destination was critical, despite her sympathy for motorists.
Barwon Heads resident of more than 20 years, Brian Ferguson, said the congestion had been caused by pedestrian crossings installed on either side of the Bridge Rd and Hitchcock Ave roundabout in 2016.
“It’s ridiculous,” Mr Fergus- on said. “If you’re coming from Ocean Grove, the traffic jam is back to the caravan park at the roundabout, and the other way is back well past Apco (service station).”
“It’s all caused by those two pedestrian crossings they put in at the roundabout of Hitchcock and bridge, there’s one on each side of the street which is ridiculous.
“I’ve been 22 years in Barwon Heads, and never have I ever heard of an accident at Hitchcock or Bridge concerning a pedestrian.”
Bellarine MP Lisa Neville said the pedestrian crossings were installed following a community campaign, citing concerns around foot traffic competing with cars.
“I understand and sym- pathise with drivers that this area is busy and congested — but these crossings are critical to the safety of pedestrians, including young children,” Ms Neville said yesterday.
“Pedestrians need a safe crossing — having people running in front of cars because they have no alternative to cross the roads is unacceptable.
“Over the busy summer period, I would encourage drivers to be patient if they experience some delays as we deal with a massive increase in population and pedestrians to the area.”
VicRoads south western regional director Mark Koliba said the organisation would continue to review traffic impacts and community feedback on the crossings to determine if further improvements need to be undertaken.
“Our goal when installing these crossings was to prevent pedestrians being injured or killed trying to cross the road, particularly during the peak holiday season,” Mr Koliba said.
“Our modelling predicted there would be some increased traffic delays, but we’re working with the local community association and will continue monitoring the impacts this summer to assess whether further improvements need to be undertaken.”