The speed limit on the Silver City Highway and six local roads in the Wentworth town centre will be reduced to create a safer environment for pedestrians and motorists.
Transport for NSW conducted a review of a 650-metre section of the Silver City Highway where it passes through Wentworth CBD – along with Darling, Helena, Sandwych, Adams, Wharf and Adelaide streets – to determine if a high pedestrian activity area should be established.
Transport for NSW Regional Director West Alistair Lunn said Wentworth Shire Council had requested the review which was carried out in accordance with state speed zoning standards, with a particular emphasis on pedestrian access, safety and community amenity.
“The Silver City Highway is an important western freight route linking Broken Hill, Mildura and beyond, while Wentworth sits on a tourist route as one of the key locations to access the Mungo National Park and other destinations in far west NSW,” Mr Lunn said.
“The highway through Wentworth attracts a lot of traffic, including many heavy vehicles, and is also a busy pedestrian area right in the centre of town.
“The review found the introduction of a high pedestrian activity area with a 40 km/h speed limit for all vehicles would boost safety for all road users and pedestrians in the area. The speed on the highway section of the review area will see a 20 km/h reduction from the existing 60 km/h limit.
“The high pedestrian area will also be expanded to include six local roads – Darling, Helena, Sandwych, Adams, Wharf and Adelaide streets – to recognise the town centre’s popularity as a gathering place for local residents and tourists.”
The new speed limits will come into effect on Thursday 20 June and new signage will be installed to advise motorists and pedestrians of the changes.
“The speed zone change will have a minimal impact on travel times for motorists passing through Wentworth but will deliver a great safety boost for road users and pedestrians in the area,” Mr Lunn said.
Members of the community can sign up here to receive the latest updates on speed limits changes in their nominated area and to have their say on speed limits.
The above Media Release has been sourced from the Transport for NSW website.
