Is this the end for right-hand turns on The Parade?
RIGHT-hand turns from The Parade into five side streets would be banned, under a proposal to ease congestion on the popular thoroughfare.
- Parade of changes finally on the way for shopping precinct
- The Parade: How to rejuvenate shopping and dining strip
- The plan to slow traffic to 40km/h on Portrush Rd
RIGHT-hand turns from The Parade into five side streets would no longer be possible, under a proposal to ease congestion on the popular thoroughfare.
Residents in Cairns, Margaret and Church streets, Ravenswood Ave and Sydenham Rd will be consulted over the possible change, one proposal in Norwood, Payneham & St Peters Council’s masterplan for the premier strip.
Median strips would be extended to make right-hand turns to or from The Parade impossible.
Council staff believed the move would improve traffic flow, reduce the number of cars on the strip and make it more “pedestrian friendly”.
The council will consult directly with residents of the side streets to ensure they are aware of — and can have a say on — the proposed changes.
An early round of consultation on the wider Parade masterplan found little support for median strip extensions that would block traffic to and from Sydenham Rd and Margaret St and Ravenwood Ave.
Respondents said the move would inconvenience motorists and push congestion elsewhere.
Speaking at a recent council meeting, Cr Paul Wormald said median strips should only be extended if there was an overwhelming case for it.
“I’ve got an open mind on the changes,” Cr Wormald said.
“In a 20-year context, if traffic keeps on increasing … then trying to make it flow would be a very useful objective.
“They’re small streets, and they have difficulties already. Making them harder to access should only be done if there is a very clear case for it.”
Cr Christel Mex said it was not clear what percentage of respondents would be directly affected by any redirection of traffic.
“Once I read what they have to say, I will be able to have a more informed view on the matter,” Cr Mex said.
Some residents have already opposed the idea of effectively ending right-hand turns.
“You must be joking,” one resident submitted during community consultation.
“You appear to have no concern for the welfare of residents.”
However, another resident said it would make The Parade more “free flowing”.
Further community consultation will be held this month.
