In 2021 we conducted a Local Area Traffic Management Study which led to the lowering of the speed limit to 40 km/h. Following this, we also introduced a truck ban and additional traffic calming measures.

The Department of Transport and Planning also undertook engagement on how it might improve traffic. Feedback received during this engagement helped pave the way for the current study.

Through a State funded study, we recently collected data to inform a range of proposed traffic measures that are expected to slow traffic and shift drivers back to the surrounding main roads.

A range of on-site traffic surveys were undertaken in September and October 2023. The data collection type and points were designed to capture all movement into, out of and around the WAP (Wattle Avenue Precinct). The surveys were designed to capture vehicle types, speed and whether they were local traffic or ‘rat-running’ through the residential streets.

The 2023 collected data was compared with previous traffic data sourced from past Department of Transport & Planning and Council studies as well as traffic signal data. A 2019 base year was chosen for Wattle Avenue and Edwards Road to reflect the network travel patterns prior to the major changes and pre COVID-19.

The survey results show a significant increase in traffic volumes (ranging from 66% -116% depending on direction and location) on the main route through WAP, namely Wattle Avenue and Edwards Road, with up to two-thirds of the traffic being through traffic (e.g. rat running as opposed to local access).

Tower Road has seen a 21% decrease in traffic volume (compared to February 2021) with about 15% through traffic. Salisbury Street has seen an increase of 11% in traffic volumes over the same period. Up to 50% of traffic on Salisbury Street is through traffic (and possibly higher given the limitations of the O&D study).

All roads in the WAP have seen a reduced 85^th percentile speed which is positive and reflects the new 40km/h speed limit in the area. However, the 85^th percentile speed on Edwards and Tower Roads is still too high at 50km/hr. The 85th percentile speed is the speed at which 85% of traffic is travelling at or below along the street.

Trucks account for about 6% of traffic volumes. There is some indication that the Truck Ban put in by Council is having a positive effect, but it is too early to say so with full confidence.

You can read more about the study findings here.

Fourteen different traffic calming measures are proposed to be introduced throughout the Wattle Avenue area. These include speed humps, road narrowing, one and two lane slow points, a wombat crossing, changes to intersections and central islands.

All of the below changes are proposals will be considered for funding and roll-out in line with Council’s usual budget processes.

You can view the below map to see where we are planning for each measure to be introduced or view the summary table of changes here.