The speed limit on a nine kilometre section of Old Coast Road through Dawesville is set to be reduced.
From early August, road users will experience a safer and more streamlined journey across the Dawesville Bridge with the following speed zone changes:
- the existing 70 kilometres per hour speed zone commencing south of Egret Point Road will be extended to just north of Southport Boulevard;
- the existing 90km/h speed zone from north of Southport Boulevard to south of Country Club Drive will be reduced to 80km/h; and
- the existing 100km/h speed zone from south of Country Club Drive to south of Dawesville Road will be reduced to 80km/h.
The reduced speed limits have been implemented following analysis undertaken by Main Roads considering current population, development and anticipated growth in coming years.
In addition to the reduced speed limit, investigations are underway to improve signage and sightlines, and improve or extend turning pockets at some intersections within this road section.
From 2017 to the end of 2021, there were 389 reported crashes on the 13km section of Old Coast Road between Egret Point Road and to just south of Dawesville Road.
As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:
“These changes are an important safety measure for the people of Dawesville and the surrounding communities, and I commend local member Lisa Munday for her advocacy on this issue.
“Main Roads has investigated the situation and I am pleased to see these safety initiatives implemented, helping to reduce the risk of road accidents and protect all road users.”
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
“Reducing the speed limit on this section of Old Coast Road will significantly improve safety for the 26,000 local residents and commuters that cross over the Dawesville Bridge each day.
“With population growth and changes to urban development, it’s absolutely critical we undertake regular reviews of speed limits to ensure all road users remain as safe as possible.”
As stated by Dawesville MLA Lisa Munday:
“This is an issue I have pursued for some time on behalf of our community and I am pleased we have secured this outcome.
“Reducing the speed limit along this stretch of Old Coast Road will significantly enhance safety for all road users in our community.
“As Dawesville continues to grow, we will see more people using key arterial routes like Old Coast Road, and this change will be critical for keeping this stretch of road safe in the years ahead.”
