On October 23, the member for Kiama, Gareth Ward, moved a Notice of Motion in State Parliament calling on the NSW Government to reverse the speed limit change along Riverside Drive at Minnamurra from 80 km/h to 60 km/h.

Mr. Ward’s motion follows a speech he delivered in Parliament last week regarding speed zone changes on Jamberoo Road, where he outlined his concerns.

“Firstly, there has been inadequate consultation with locals on these significant changes. Second, these speed changes appear to be revenue raisers for the NSW Government in Sydney,” said Ward.

“Third, these changes appear to be lazy bureaucratic responses. Rather than investing in roads to make them safer, the NSW Labor Government are just agreeing with their Sydney-centric bureaucrats who aren’t talking with locals about these changes.”

Councillor and Chairman of the Local Transport Committee, Stuart Larkins, emphasised that the speed changes are not under Kiama Council's control and are instead enforced by Transport NSW.

“I understand that there has been frustration and concerns raised about recent speed zone changes, and it is the responsibility of state officials to directly address those concerns,” said Councillor Larkins.

“Sadly, I am aware that some of the newly installed speed zone signs have been defaced. It has fallen to council staff having to replace the signs, and I would convey that people who are concerned about the speed zone changes raise their matters directly to Transport for NSW as an appropriate response.”

Councillor Larkins believes the Kiama Council can contribute by developing a local road safety plan.

“I do believe that Kiama Council should develop a local road safety plan, which should look at medium-long term strategic planning for road safety projects and initiatives in our local community and factor in advocacy for speed zone changes, where needed, to the state government,” said Councillor Larkins.

The speed limit changes have sparked debate on the Kiama Community Facebook Page, with opinions divided between supporters and critics.

The Bugle has recently published articles discussing potential wildlife threats, alternative solutions and have followed Ward’s efforts to reverse the decision.

Mr. Ward’s motion includes the following points:

1. Calls on NSW Labor to reverse the speed limit reduction on Riverside Drive at Minnamurra from 80 km/h to 60 km/h between Fig Hill Lane and Federal Street.
2. Calls for road works, maintenance, and design improvements rather than lazy and bureaucratic speed reductions designed to raise revenue for the NSW Government.
3. Condemns the NSW Labor Government for failing to adequately consult with impacted local residents who are frustrated by Sydney-centric bureaucratic decisions.

You can share your concerns about speed limits by using the Transport for NSW Have Your Say feedback form.