Reduced speed limit for Cairns CBD

Published Tuesday, 05 February, 2019 at 11:00 AM

Minister for Transport and Main Roads
The Honourable Mark Bailey

Pedestrians, cyclists and motorists in Cairns’ CBD will be safer from February 18 when the speed limit is reduced to 40km/h.

Member for Cairns Michael Healy said the initiative comes after a working group comprised of the State Government, council, locals and business representatives last year sought to reduce the speed limit.

“At the 2017 election, we committed to reducing speed limits in areas of high pedestrian and cyclist activity to increase safety for Queenslanders, and this result just shows we are delivering on that commitment,” Mr Healy said.

“The Cairns CBD has one of the highest rates of road trauma in Queensland, and I commend council for adopting the decision to lower the speed limit, which will help reduce crashes and make the CBD safer for residents and visitors to enjoy.

Following a two week notification period, the speed limit will be lowered in the CBD area bounded by the Esplanade, Florence Street, McLeod Street and Spence Street.

“I would like to thank council, residents, businesses and the media for helping to communicate this important change, and I would also like to thank motorists in advance for adhering to the new speed limit.”

Cairns Regional Council Deputy Mayor Cr Terry James said the speed reduction was critical given the high number of tourists and pedestrians who used the area.

“Many visitors are unaware of our road rules and are unfamiliar with the area,” Cr James said.

“When you have a lot of traffic, this can be a hazardous situation for all.

“The reduction of the speed limit by 10km/h shouldn’t impact on traffic flow and will significantly improve the safety of our road users and pedestrians, which is a priority for council.” 

The lower 30km/h and 20km/h speed limits found on the Esplanade and Lake Street are set to remain unchanged.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said he was delighted to see the outcome of the successful partnership between council, the Queensland Government and local stakeholders come to fruition.

ENDS

Media Contact: Francis Dela Cruz - 0420 592 078