I’ve recently spoken with Council engineers to again address some issues on Woongarra Scenic Drive that continue to be a concern for many residents including those within Carlyle Gardens. I’ve requested that the issue be investigated together to see if we can finally clear them up in one hit instead of as ‘piecemeal’ projects.
1. BUS SET-DOWN AREA – A bus set-down area has been proposed for some time on the eastern alignment of WSD (for southbound traffic) just to the south of the pedestrian crossing point. The proposal has been to include a concrete disembarking pad with a short length of footpath connecting it to the crossing point to assist those utilising mobility devices. This may require some modification or removal of the build-outs on the eastern side of the crossing to enable the bus to safely leave the carriageway.
The area involved is a currently has a gravel surface and is occasionally used for casual car parking. A better, more formalised parking arrangement is being considered nearby (see below).
2. CARLYLE COURT PARKING – The small shopping centre in Carlyle Court leading off WSD is becoming more and more popular and the dedicated car park at the rear and the current parallel spaces on the southern alignment of the road are simply not meeting the demand.
I’ve asked that Council investigate the construction of additional spaced on the northern alignment where there is sufficient room within the wide nature strip. As it is, vehicles already park illegally in that location creating a potential traffic hazard. If approved, this arrangement would assist the local businesses and also compensate for any loss of the informal spaces on WSD mentioned above.
3. EXCESSIVE SPEED – Unfortunately, despite the identified crossing point across WSD near Carlyle Gardens and ‘Aged Care’ warning signs on both approaches, some motorists insist on exceeding the 50km/h speed limit and endangering elderly pedestrian and motorists either crossing WSD or exiting Carlyle Gardens.
I’ve asked the engineers to again investigate the options for traffic calming devices to be installed in this location and especially for northbound traffic due to the proximity of the curve in the road.
Due to the common nature of the works involved and the close proximity of all three projects, I’ve asked that consideration be given to knocking all of them over at the same time to gain some efficiencies and savings on an ‘economy of scale’ basis.
Nothing has been finalised but I’ve asked for feedback as soon as possible and will post any progress here.