Council seeking feedback on proposed improvements for Old Coach Road
Published on 01 September 2020
Colac Otway Shire Council is calling for community feedback on proposed safety improvements on Old Coach Road at Skenes Creek in response to concerns raised by residents and other petitioners.
A petition signed by 84 people, including 20 Skenes Creek residents, raising concerns regarding increased traffic and speeding motorists along the road, was received by Council earlier this year.
Council Infrastructure & Environment General Manager Tony McGann said the petition outlined issues with an increase in traffic, potentially caused by GPS systems directing tourists along the road and motorists using the road as a short cut.
“The petition also raised concerns about speeding on the road, particularly 4WD vehicles, which creates dusty and dangerous conditions for residents and pedestrians,” Cr Schram said.
“In the past, Council installed ‘No 4WD’ signs in response to speeding concerns and increased road maintenance and grading to reduce dust, however these measures have not been successful.
“In response to the petition, Council has carried out traffic counts, joint site inspections, and consulted further with the petition organisers, where a range of possible solutions were explored.
“Council is proposing further improvements and is asking petitioners and other affected landholders or motorists to have their say on the suggested changes before they are implemented.”
Subject to support from local residents and other key stakeholders, Council is proposing to remove existing 4WD signage and install new ‘No Through Road’ signs.
As a result of conversations with petition representatives, Council is proposing to install two gates at the top and bottom of the steep, upper section of the road and ‘no through road’ signs at either end of the road to restrict through traffic.
Property owners, residents and operators within the restricted area would be provided with keys to the gates under the proposal.
All residents and landowners on Old Coach Road and surrounding streets as well as emergency services, Barwon Water and Ericsson who undertake operations along Old Coach Road will be encouraged to provide feedback on the proposal.
Council will also advertise the proposed changes to the wider community and invite submissions via a public notice in accordance with the requirements of the Road Management Act 2004.
The new Council elected in October will consider the submissions and vote on the proposals at its November or December Ordinary Council Meeting. Find out more about the proposal and making a submission at https://www.colacotway.vic.gov.au/Community-Consultations/Old-Coach-Road-Proposed-Changes