Call for wide debate on traffic calming measures

5/9/94

Transport Minister Eric Charlton has called for wide community debate on traffic calming measures following the release today of a discussion paper on the issue.

The 40-page paper, compiled by a Ministerial task force set up by Mr Charlton and chaired by Liberal MLC Barbara Scott, provides a national and international perspective on traffic calming management, planning and design.

The task force is examining the effectiveness of existing traffic calming activities and the practicalities of introducing controls so that calming projects are carried out in order of priority to best use scarce road funds.

It is also looking at the safety of some designs and will make recommendations to the Minister by March next year.

Mr Charlton established the task force inquiry because of his concerns over the safety of some traffic calming devices.

"In Western Australia, 26 per cent of all reported accidents and 30 per cent of all reported casualty accidents occur on residential roads," he said.

"Just over 50 per cent of all reported child pedestrian casualty accidents occur on the same roads.

"While I agree traffic environments should be changed to remove the invitation for high speeds, these measures must be well designed and not over-supplied, so the work does not place at risk the safety of other road users - cyclists and pedestrians especially.

"The purpose of Barbara's work is to ensure we get the right mix in terms of safety, maximising the road dollar and the efficient movement of transport."

Mr Charlton said local authorities were being consulted in the investigation because it was in their best interests that they maximised road expenditure.

"Local authorities are part of the 'Fix Australia - Fix The Roads' campaign and know only too well the effects of the Commonwealth road funding crisis," the Minister said.

"The installation of traffic calming devices has an important role in controlling traffic speed in built up areas, but any work of this kind which appears extravagant or poorly designed can be construed as an improper use of public funds."

The public has six weeks in which to comment on the discussion paper.  Copies can be obtained through Mrs Scott's electorate office at 29 Adelaide Street, Fremantle, or by telephoning 430 7233.

Media contact:  Dean Roberts 321 7333