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Town centre speed limit cut

Tari JeffersManjimup-Bridgetown Times
Cr John Nicholas.
Camera IconCr John Nicholas. Credit: Manjimup-Bridgetown Times

40km/h speed limits will remain in Bridgetown, Balingup, Donnybrook and Boyanup, following a successful trial.

Data collected throughout the trial showed about 6000 vehicles passed through the town centres each day.

The aim of the lowered speed limit has been to improve driver and pedestrian safety, as well as reduce road trauma.

Bridgetown-Greenbushes shire president John Nicholas, pictured, said he and the wider Bridgetown community were pleased the State Government had agreed to make the 40km/h speed zone permanent in the town centre.

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“Before it was even over, we had a petition with about 70 signatures to keep the speed at 40km/h,” he said.

“The only thing that has really been discussed is the length of the 40km/h zone through Bridgetown, as most of us agree it was just a little too long on the southern side.

“We want it to capture the business district only, so we’ll wait to see what happens.”

Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said the State Government was striving to strike the right balance between the needs of drivers and the needs of pedestrians.

“We listened to the community on what they wanted to see happen with the speed limit and delivered on it,” she said. “These regional towns are accessed by an average of 6000 vehicles per day.

“I’m pleased that pedestrian and road user safety will be improved with the permanent change to this speed limit.”

Road Safety Minister Michelle Roberts said the slower speed limits should not be seen as an inconvenience.

“They affect travel times by one or two minutes at the most, but ensure a greater quality of life for residents and visitors of these towns,” she said.

“I want to extend my thanks to Collie-Preston MLA Mick Murray for championing the cause.”

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