EIGHT serious crashes in 10 years prompted VicRoads’ move last week to extend the 80km/h zone at Killarney.
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An extra 2.3km of the Princes Highway was lowered from 100km/h, including the intersections with Port Fairy-Penshurst Road and Woodbine Road (also known as Golf Course Road), extending the Killarney 80km/h zone to a total of 4.4km.
VicRoads data showed the eight crashes at the two intersections had resulted in six serious injuries.
Information from VicRoads stated the crashes “included side impact crashes and rear-end crashes as drivers try to find a gap as they exit local roads and enter fast moving highway traffic on the Princes Highway”.
The information also explains that “feedback from the community, local police and Moyne Shire” had prompted a review of the two intersections now included in the 80km/h zone.
That review, conducted earlier this year, “recommended a speed reduction to improve safety” due to “a growing volume to traffic as a result of increasing numbers of young families settling in new developments in the area” and “significant community concern”. Lighting was also installed recently to improve visibility at night at the intersections.
VicRoads regional director Mark Koliba said road safety was a key priority.
"We want to improve safety for the community at Killarney, as we have seen a significant increase in traffic volume, a high number of crashes, and there has been significant concern from the local community,” he said.
"Lowering the speed limit near the new developments and adding street lighting at both intersections, will make the Princes Highway safer road for everyone."
The lowering of the speed limit attracted lots of negative comments on Facebook, despite some pointing out it would improve safety and add less than a minute to travel times.
Moyne Shire councillor Jordan Lockett told The Standard last week he would have liked more community consultation on the change, but said “if it saves one life it’s worthwhile”.