About the Project
Proposed changes
Council is considering submitting a proposal to the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) to alter the speed limit throughout the Smiths Beach estate. This proposal is driven by requests from the local community and our commitment to improving road safety.
The project proposes to introduce a 30km/h area speed limit to the estate on all roads, except for Smiths Beach Rd and Beachcomber Rd, for which 40km/h is proposed
This would offer significant safety, health and environmental benefits. Reducing vehicle speeds makes streets safer for all road users and in particular pedestrians and cyclists. Reduced speed limits also improve the amenity of the area by reducing dust.
Lower speed limits lead to fewer and less severe accidents, making the roads safer for everyone, especially more vulnerable road users like children and the elderly.
It is also proposed to install 20km/h speed limits in the carpark to improve safety.
The Smiths Beach estate is located south of Cowes on Phillip Island.
The estate has many narrow-unsealed roads and minimal footpaths. There are open drains and trees close to the edge of the road that pose a hazard for motorists.
Pedestrians walk along the roads and there is a relaxed coastal amenity in the estate.
The number of vehicles on streets vary between 50-2000 vehicles per day depending on the street connectivity and time of year.
Summer periods experience higher periods of traffic due to tourism on Phillip Island.
Vehicle speeds range from 25-40km/h on unsealed roads and 25-55km/h along Smiths Beach Road and Beachcomber Avenue (which are sealed).
The current speed limit is 50km/h.
We will review local community feedback received and if supported by the community, apply for the speed limit to be lowered.
Speed limit changes need to be submitted to the Department of Transport and Planning to ensure they align with speed zoning guidelines.
The applications are then submitted for consideration of approval to the Minister for Transport and Planning.
The approval process can take a few months.
Installation of the new speed limit signs would be undertaken after there is community support and Minister
approval.
