Report calls for speed limit to stay
THE Surf Coast Shire looks set to retain an 80km/h speed limit at a notorious Torquay intersection, despite fears someone could be killed without urgent action.
The council will tonight receive a report responding to a 97-signature petition calling on council to drop the Ghazeepore Rd speed limit from 80km/h to 50km/h between Coombes and Grossmans Roads.
The report has recommended council does not apply the 50km/h speed limit, and instead undertakes a speed limit review for the wider area.
“It is recommended that Council does not apply the 50km/h speed reduction as it does not meet VicRoads guidelines,” the report notes.
“Council officers will carry out a precinct-wide speed limit review to include Grossmans Road and Coombes Road up to and including Ghazeepore Road, between these roads and implement any actions required.”
Councillors will discuss and vote on the report at tonight’s meeting.
South Barwon State MP Andrew Katos wrote to council in support of the petition, citing potential danger to motorists in the area.
Multiple serious crashes have occurred at the Coombes Rd and Ghazeepore Rd junction in recent years, including a three-car collision last month.
The crash left three people hospitalised, including a woman in her 60s who was flown to The Alfred hospital with serious injuries.
It has sparked calls for authorities to make changes to the intersection, including lowering the speed limit and making signs more visible.
Last month the Surf Coast Shire said it was aware of concerns surrounding the intersection.
“One issue that has been highlighted is the need to raise awareness of drivers on Ghazeepore Rd that there is an intersection ahead,” governance and infrastructure manager Anne Howard said.
“Council has tried to improve the situation in recent years with improved signage and line marking, and hopes to secure funding to do further works to improve the intersection.”