EXCLUSIVE: Speed limit reduction through busy intersection ‘good’ for growing community

A BUSY intersection in Hervey Bay has become safer after the speed limit along Maryborough-Hervey Bay Road was reduced in Nikenbah.

Fraser Coast Division 9 Councillor David Lee believes the lowered speed limit along Maryborough-Hervey Bay Road through Nikenbah will improve safety for all road users. PHOTO: Shaun Ryan.

Maryborough-Hervey Bay Road is now an 80kmph zone in the vicinity of Chapel Road.

Division 9 Councillor David Lee said he was thrilled the Department of Transport and Main Roads saw value in his efforts to lower the speed limit by 20kmph in the area.

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Cr Lee raised a motion at a Fraser Coast Regional Council meeting in August 2021, requesting Council write to the department to reduce the speed limit.

The motion was passed unanimously.

“It’s great to know the road has been made safer at what is a very busy intersection. It’s definitely a step in the right direction,” Cr Lee said.

The previous speed limit saw motorists from Chapel Road or Nikenbah-Dundowran Road have to cross the thoroughfare from a standstill, with vehicles heading to or from Hervey Bay travelling at 100kmph.

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“There was particular concern around days when the markets were on and from people attending the nearby church and visiting the local businesses,” said Cr Lee.

“With the area only getting busier, this is a good move in that it is looking ahead to make things safer instead of waiting for a potentially fatal accident before changes are implemented.”

Cr Lee acknowledged the behind-the-scenes advocacy from fellow councillor Denis Chapman.

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“We become councillors because we want to help and improve our communities. And this was one of those cases we were able to advocate for a real safety concern,” explained Cr Lee.

“There is a correlation between speeding and traffic accidents, so lowering the limit at this busy intersection is a successful outcome.”

Meanwhile, Cr Lee is urging motorists to play their part in improving safety by sticking to the new limit.