Published on 10 June 2021
The Borough of Queenscliffe has partnered with the Transport Accident Commission to make one of Queenscliff’s busiest streets safer with a brand new pedestrian crossing.
The crossing, located at the corner of Gellibrand Street and Hobson Street in Queenscliff, was strongly supported by residents during Council consultation on road safety last year. Featuring a raised walkway, road narrowing, signage, and new lighting, the crossing will help pedestrians safely make their way from Queenscliff’s shopping precinct to the beach or Princess Park.
Mayor Ross Ebbels said the crossing was a small improvement that would make a big difference for safety. “A Council traffic investigation on Gellibrand Street found vehicles were regularly exceeding the speed limit and putting pedestrians at risk,” said Cr Ross Ebbels. “With the new crossing installed, motorists are already slowing down and giving pedestrians more space. It’s a big improvement for safety and makes the area a more pleasant place to visit.”
The Transport Accident commission supported the project with a $15,000 funding grant. TAC Head of Road Safety Samantha Cockfield said that working with local councils was crucial in saving lives in small towns like Queenscliff. “Pedestrians are some of our most vulnerable road users and this project is only making Queenscliff safer for pedestrians and more accessible,” Ms Cockfield said. “By working with local councils we can ensure safety improvements happen where they’re most needed and we’re proud to have supported the Council in making Gellibrand Street safer.”
The works are just one of many pedestrian safety upgrades Council is making throughout the Borough, which will also include pedestrian crossings in Hesse Street, Queenscliff and on Point Lonsdale Road. Council’s draft budget also includes funding for a detailed traffic study of Queenscliff’s shopping precinct, aimed at helping Council respond to the way pedestrians, cyclists and cars move through the township. More information about these improvements is available at queenscliffe.vic.gov.au/pedestrian-safety.