Drivers will soon be travelling a little slower across the Surf Coast Shire, with area-wide speed reductions coming to the region early next year.
Speed changes to 40km/h and 30km/h have been proposed for Anglesea, Aireys Inlet, Fairhaven and Moggs Creek through Surf Coast Shire Council’s latest speed review.
Councillor Leon Walker said speed changes would be implemented by June next year following approval by the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP).
“Residents have consistently told us they want safer streets where people can walk and cycle comfortably,” he said.
“Community input has been central to this process; we wanted to hear how people use the local roads and how we can make them safer for everyone.
“It is great to see the results of this speed review…as these recommendations balance safety, accessibility and the unique character of our coastal towns.”
Surf Coast Environment Group committee member Mat Hines raised concerns regarding speed limits across the Surf Coast during Surf Coast Shire’s 28 October council meeting.
Mr Hines said he was glad to see council considering area-wide speed reductions as 30km/h speed limits were “significantly safer” and had “almost zero impact on car-based journey times”.
“Reduced speed limits lead to lower vehicle emissions, resulting in improved public health and reduced environmental impact,” he said.
“They also make our streets safer for older pedestrians, reduce the risk of vehicle crashes, and encourage more people to walk and ride bikes for short journeys.”
Chief executive Robyn Seymour said improving the safety of vulnerable and unprotected road users was important for the shire.
“Council is considering speed limit reductions in high pedestrian areas in parts of the Surf Coast Shire,” she said.
“We intend to implement 30km/h and 40km/h area-wide speed zones in line with the (DTP) speed limit guidelines by June 2026.”
The speed review was informed by strong community feedback and a technical assessment by an independent specialist.
