UPDATE: South Gippsland Shire Council is urgently seeking external funding to implement vital traffic calming measures in Venus Bay. This comes after a petition spearheaded by resident Mark Radley gathered an overwhelming 339 signatures, highlighting serious safety concerns on local roads.
The council is currently developing designs to address traffic risks at critical locations identified by the petition. Key areas of concern include Lees Road, specifically the section between the bend east of Merkani Avenue and 30 meters east of Game Street. Additionally, ‘The Mad Mile’ entry to the second estate, near Anita Crescent, has been flagged as another hazardous spot. The petition also calls for a reduction of the speed limit on Lees Road in the third estate from 80 km/h to 50 km/h or the implementation of traffic calming measures.
Local officials acknowledge the pressing nature of these speed issues. Council representatives stated, “Speed concerns have been raised in Venus Bay, particularly on Lees Road through the first estate.” In response, they are crafting concept designs for speed treatments on Lees Road and Canterbury Road, aiming to secure funding through state and federal programs.
The council has already engaged with the Victorian Government’s Department of Transport and the Transport Accident Commission, seeking grant opportunities under the Safe Local Roads and Streets Program. If successful, these safety upgrades could be implemented in Venus Bay within the next two years.
Councilor Sarah Gilligan, a resident of Venus Bay, expressed her support for the petition, emphasizing the community’s commitment to road safety. “If funding is secured, it will be positive news for the town,” she stated. Fellow Councilor Brad Snell echoed her sentiments, affirming the urgent need to enhance safety on these roads.
Mark Radley, who initiated the petition, welcomed the council’s proactive measures. “Everyone in Venus Bay will be a winner with the eventual installation of traffic calming measures,” he said, highlighting the dangerous driving behaviors many residents experience, including tailgating and reckless overtaking. He added that the changes would create a safer environment for cyclists, joggers, children, parents with infants, dog walkers, and individuals using mobility scooters.
The community is rallying behind these proposals, with many residents sharing their stories of near-misses and unsafe driving conditions. The anticipated traffic calming measures are seen not only as a means to reduce speeds but also as a way to foster a safer, more family-friendly environment that protects local wildlife.
What’s Next: As the council prepares to submit funding applications, the community is encouraged to stay engaged and support ongoing safety initiatives. Residents are urged to monitor updates from the council and participate in discussions on how to best address these critical concerns.
Stay tuned for further developments regarding this urgent safety issue in Venus Bay. The time to act is now!
