Speed reduction request for Shetland Heights Road

Bass Coast Shire Council said it wants to reduce the speed limit on Shetland Heights Road to 50km/h, following the road's redevelopment and opening of the new junior secondary campus of Bass Coast College on Potters Hill Road, San Remo.

Council said it was seeking the reduction to ensure the safety of pupils and residents, as most of the road now features residential zoning.

“The review is in response to an independent traffic impact assessment, commissioned by Council, which clarified the demands on Shetland Heights Road and other streets in the school’s catchment area,” a council release stated.

“A 50km/h speed limit also meets government guidelines for built-up areas, under the Department of Transport and Planning's Speed Zoning Guidelines.

“With primary access to the new school being on Potters Hill Road, council said most traffic increases occurred here.

However Council stated Shetland Heights Road also saw a moderate increase, averaging 560 vehicles per day.

According to Council, more than 80 percent of children arrive by bus and paths have also been provided to encourage local pupils from Newhaven and San Remo to travel by foot or bike.

“Therefore, in addition to monitoring traffic changes over the last year, the recommendation to reduce speeds to 50km/h is an essential safety measure.”

Council has requested the Department of Transport (DoT), to approve the new speed limit.

Council said it previously worked with VicRoads (and the VSBA) to lower the speed on Potters Hill Road to 50km/h, plus a 40km/h school speed zone.

Speed limit reviews can take up to two years. Until then, Council has installed frequently repeated ‘slow down, speed means dust’ signage on Shetland Heights Road plus a 40kph temporary speed limit.

“This new speed limit will improve safety for all road users, particularly school pupils, plus other pedestrians and cyclists,” the release stated.

“Council urges all drivers to observe the speed limit recommendation urgently, plus exercise caution when travelling on Shetland Heights Road.”

Details: engage.basscoast.vic.gov.au/shetland