Mosman and Balmoral Beach all set for safer speeds: 40km/h speed limit proposed.

By ANNA USHER

Mosman Council has begun community discussions to decrease speed limits to 40km/h across key areas, from Spit Junction to Centenary Circle and along The Esplanade at Balmoral Beach.

The council’s proposal will mean a blanket reduction of speed from 50km/h, supplemented by several traffic calming initiatives, including raised pedestrian crossings, kerb build outs, and the introduction of speed cushions.

Residents are being asked to complete two surveys and provide their thoughts on high pedestrian activity areas (HPAAs) within the postcode, designed to bolster safety for pedestrians, cyclists, children, and the elderly.

But while the plan has been welcomed by many in the community, not everyone is happy.

Councillor Simon Menzies told Mosman Collective the proposal is “flawed” and will make local traffic worse – not better – if it goes ahead.

“The issue of a 40km/h speed limit is void, because people using busy local roads only travel at around 30km/h due to the congestion,” he said.

“Implementing these changes will mean losing six car spaces on Military Rd, which will have a negative impact on small business.

“Military Rd has six existing pedestrian crossings between Spit Junction and The Buena. Adding another near Gouldsbury St is unnecessary.”

What is planned?

Military Road (Spit Junction to Centenary Circle)
Speed limits are proposed to be reduced, with additional extensions of HPAAs to School Zones surrounding Mosman Public School and Mosman High School on Belmont Road, Gladstone Avenue and Avenue Road. Plans include the installation of a raised pedestrian crossing between Almora Street and Gouldsbury Street, which will mean the removal of six parking spots to meet NSW Transport requirements.

The Esplanade, Balmoral Beach
A reduction in speed limits coupled with extending HPAAs to school zones on Mandolong Road, Waitovu Street, Raglan Street and Esther Road. Improvements will include a new raised platform at The Esplanade and Awaba Street intersection, upgraded pedestrian crossings on Raglan Street and the installation of a speed cushion on Plunkett Road.

“By reducing vehicle speed and increasing awareness of pedestrians, the proposed HPAA aims to enhance pedestrian safety, reduce the frequency and severity of crashes, and increase overall community liveability,” Mosman Council says.

“Lower vehicle speeds are proven to reduce the risk of pedestrian injury. According to Transport for NSW, a pedestrian hit by a car travelling at 40km/h has twice the chance of surviving the collision than if the car was travelling 50km/h.”

The council believes that if implemented, traffic calming measures like raised crossings, curb buildouts, and speed cushions will slow vehicles and improve pedestrian visibility for drivers, making it safer for pedestrians to cross.

“And beyond safety, the HPAA will enhance Mosman’s walkability and foster a more pedestrian-friendly community.”

You are invited to complete the survey, HERE.