Warrnambool council applies for funding to upgrade another city roundabout

Four accidents at the roundabout at the corner of Kepler and Lava streets over the past five years means the intersection qualifies for black spot funding.

The council has applied to the Federal Government for the money and the council says any works will bring it in line with other roundabouts.

"It is proposed that this roundabout be made consistent with other upgraded roundabouts in the city centre," the council said.

The Kepler Street roundabouts at the intersections with Timor and Koroit streets were upgraded in recent years as well as those on Liebig Street as part of the city centre renewal.

A new roundabout was also installed last year at the intersection of Kelp and Timor streets after a $272,000 grant from the government under the black spot funding.

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The upgraded roundabouts in the city centre, which prioritised pedestrians over motorists, has sparked backlash from some in the community.

When they were first installed, a petition started by now councillor Angie Paspaliaris calling for them to be changed attracted 5000 signatures.

At the February council meeting, motorist Gavan Nevill brought the issue back into the spotlight calling for a rethink on the design, something that found support.

A Standard survey attracted about 500 responses with 69 per cent of people wanting to see them removed, even if it cost ratepayers more money.

In the meantime, the council has been successful in obtaining matching funding from the Traffic Accident Commission of $54,659 for the upgrade of a pedestrian crossing along Gateway Road near Wannon Water.

"This project, developed in response to concerns raised by a nearby retirement community, will result in the crossing becoming a raised platform which will make it more visible and encourage motorists to slow down," the council said.

"This will help ensure vulnerable road users - including children and older people - can access the public bus system and the shopping centre safely."

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