Cook Shire Council has now removed the traffic calming devices previously installed at Ida Street and Webber Esplanade near the Splash Park, following further review, monitoring and community feedback.
The reasoning behind the installation of traffic calming measures at both locations was driven by community concerns about child safety and the need to slow vehicles in areas heavily used by children. Council acted to address those concerns and has continued to monitor the performance of the devices since installation.
Following this review, Council determined that the devices installed were not the most appropriate long-term solution for either location, particularly when balancing road safety outcomes with noise, amenity and operational considerations. As a precautionary risk management measure, the devices at Ida Street were removed last week, and the devices at Webber Esplanade were removed this morning.
Council wishes to be clear that the removal of these devices does not change Council’s commitment to improving road safety, particularly in locations used by children.
Speed limits are maximum allowable speeds, not targets, and motorists are reminded to drive below the posted limit where conditions require — especially near parks, schools and other child-focused facilities.
Council officers are now progressing the assessment and selection of alternative traffic calming measures that are more suitable for each location. Importantly, any replacement devices will be consistent in type and design, ensuring a standardised approach to traffic calming across town while achieving the primary objective of slowing vehicles to safe speeds.
Replacement measures will be installed as soon as feasible, and Council will continue to keep the community informed as this work progresses.
Council thanks residents for their feedback and patience. Listening to the community, reviewing outcomes and refining solutions are essential parts of delivering safe, practical and well-considered infrastructure.