School causes traffic concern
A PROPOSED new school for students on the autism spectrum has led to concern over increased traffic on two Townsville roads.
The new school, which will be called Calvary Special School, is planned for a vacant lot on Bayswater Rd.
However, Deputy Mayor and chairman of the Planning and Development Committee Mark Molachino has flagged concerns about the increased traffic on Raynesford Rd, the main access point for the school.
Cr Molachino said the increase in traffic, particularly when the development was complete, could be a detriment to the community.
He said the majority of people who access the school will have to come via Bayswater Rd, which could create issues for other road users.
Cr Molachino and councillor Anne-maree Greaney also asked questions about queuing spilling out on to the local road.
However, council staff said there was a 45m gap between the road and the collection area, and staged pick ups planned. The council report says it is estimated the school, at its full capacity of 120 students plus staff, will generate 137 vehicles per hour during its peak periods.
A petition was lodged with the council against the development, calling for the access road to be Bayswater Rd in
stead of Raynesford Dr.
“Carers dropping off or collecting students will not be permitted to park on Raynesford Drive and walk to and from their vehicles with students and will be required to enter the school grounds to drop off or pick up students,” the council report says.
The proposal for the school includes a three-stage construction.
It will include six single-storey classrooms, and a centrally located administration building, covered outdoor area and playground.
The new school will initially cater for grades one and two, with aims to cater for students through to grade 10 eventually.
“The rollout of grades three to 10 will be determined over time and on a needs basis,” the council report says
Stage one will include space for 40 students, stage two for 80 students and stage three for 120 students. At its capacity, it is also expected the school will have 35 staff members.
The development will go before the full council meeting in two weeks.