Queensland speed limit review results released

Queensland motorists will travel more quickly and more safely on a number of the state’s major highways following the second round of a state-wide speed limit review.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said some stretches of highway would see an increase to 110 km per hour.

“Highway changes will affect sections of the Leichhardt, Carnarvon and Warrego Highways, where the limit will go up from 100 km per hour to 110 km per hour,” Mr Emerson said.

“Four speed zones on sections of the Peak Downs Highway from Te Kowai to Walkerston will be reduced to 90 km per hour.”

Out of the 42 sections of road reviewed in the second round, 13 will see changes.

Six speed limits will be increased and three decreased. Four other roads will see the number and frequency of speed limit changes reduced to minimise confusion for drivers.

“This review is yet another way the LNP Government is listening to Queenslanders’ concerns and making our state the safest place to work, live and raise a family,” Mr Emerson said.

“Boosting consistency of speed on Queensland roads is part of our two-year, $350 million Road Safety Action Plan to drive down the road toll.

“Queenslanders should be congratulated on maintaining a record low road toll, with 39 fewer deaths than this time last year.”

One hundred roads and speed limits were shortlisted for review after the State Government received 3300 submissions from the public.

Results are based on public input, crash data, local knowledge and recent upgrades.

Mr Emerson reminded motorists not to jump the gun on the impending speed limit changes.

“Changes to road signs will happen progressively and are expected to be completed by late August,” he said.

“Engineers are now carefully assessing the final 38 review results.”

All reviews have been conducted by engineers in line with Queensland speed limit setting guidelines and are endorsed by local Speed Management Committees.

Results from the remaining speed limit reviews will be published on the Transport and Main Roads website as they become available: www.tmr.qld.gov.au/speedlimitreview.

[ENDS] 7 August 2014

Media contact: Emily Arlidge 0455 063 989