Burwood Village speed limit lowered to 40km/h in response to safety concerns
In just six years, a popular yet notorious stretch of Toorak Rd recorded 19 crashes, four resulting in serious injury. Burwood Village traders were desperate for action. Their calls have been answered.
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The speed limit along a busy Camberwell shopping strip has been slashed to 40km/h after a spate of accidents, four resulting in serious injury.
Nineteen crashes were reported on Toorak Rd as it through Burwood Village since 2014.
Motorists were previously allowed to pass through the village at 60km/h, with tram users, cyclists and shoppers all sharing the road.
The new limit will be enforced between Charles St and Scott Grove from 7am to 8pm.
Five electronic speed signs, as well as static signs, have been installed along the strip, with the State Government picking up the $272,000 bill.
Yarra Trams, as well as Whitehorse and Boroondara councils, have also been involved in safety talks.
Burwood Traders Association president Wayne Stoll, owner of Prohibition Food and Wine, said the reduced speed limit would improve the village feel of the strip.
“We’ve been wanting this for about three or four years, mainly in response to concerns about the safety of shoppers and pedestrians,” he said.
“And from the traders’ perspective it gives people a chance to slow down and check out the area.”
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Road Safety Minister Jaala Pulford said evidence showed accidents at 60km/h had far more serious consequences.
“Forty kilometres an hour is a much more appropriate speed when you have people getting in and out of cars, as well as older people, kids and tram users in the area,” she said.