Cooroy intersections 'concerning'

MEMBER for Noosa Sandy

Bolton has again raised the lack of progress to improve the safety of Cooroy’s intersections as “concerning”.

While it is not in the Noosa state electorate, Sandy has stated previously, in public and to TMR, that the safety of the intersections at Diamond and Elm Street and Myall and Elm Street needs to be addressed as a priority, and again put a Question on Notice to Minister Bailey in Parliament recently.

As highlighted in Sandy’s budget reply speech, even though the intersections are not in her electorate, the lack of progress on the Cooroy intersections is of concern to her office.

“Both Noosa and Nicklin state electorate residents are at risk daily from these.”

A TMR spokesperson said they have undertaken early planning for future upgrades at the two intersections.

“Traffic signals and roundabouts were investigated, and signals were determined as the preferred option.

“Traffic signals are preferred because single-lane roundabouts would not meet forecast traffic needs, there would be significant impacts to neighbouring properties as a result of the land required to accommodate dual-lane roundabouts, and signals provide the safest crossing option for bike riders and pedestrians.”

The TMR spokesperson said traffic signals can be programmed to respond in the most efficient way depending on where the greatest traffic demand is being experienced.

“For example, during morning peak periods, priority can be given to traffic heading towards school drop-offs if that is determined to be the highest priority.

“The same signals can reverse this priority in the afternoon peak of the same day. The signal timing can be reviewed and optimised to respond to changing demands over time as traffic patterns evolve.

“The signals can also be set to respond ‘on demand’, which uses vehicle detector loops to communicate with the signals when motorists arrive at the intersection, which triggers a change in the lights. This is partic- ularly useful in periods of low demand such as in the middle of the night.”

Sandy said while TMR identified traffic signals as the preferred option for safety, pedestrian access, and to avoid private land resumptions, however, at that time, the community did not support this and favoured roundabouts.

"TMR has committed to bringing this back to the community for feedback, at which time the previous analysis and recommendations can be revisited, as well technical aspects and current road standard requirements discussed in more detail," Sandy said.

In response to Sandy’s recent letter to the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Sandy’s office has been advised no funding is currently allocated.

However, in an effort to have these intersections made a priority for upgrading, Sandy is asking residents to “add their voices” by writing to TMR.

“Once there has been some feedback and if required, in conjunction with the Nicklin State MP, we shall request a community meeting for TMR to re-engage with the community on this.”

Member for Nicklin Rob Skelton said he stands with Sandy on the issue.

"I continue to advocate for a solution for the community, and will always fight for more and better funding for our roads.

“I join with Noosa MP Sandy Bolton and TMR in encouraging local residents to have their say on the issue by providing their feedback directly to TMR.”

TMR is also encouraging residents to send feedback about the intersections to be used to inform future planning stages when funding becomes available.

Email TMR at NCR_Planning@tmr.qld.gov.au.

Dear Editor

For 20-odd years, Cooroy was asked to unite with one voice to receive the best option for better traffic flow but petitions were largely ignored, surveys ignored, and letters ignored.

Transport and Main Roads (TMR) for 30 years has fobbed Cooroy off with the same yearly constant bluffs such as lack of state fund- ing, they have to consult with all parties, they will push ahead anyway with lights (the cheap option), or no funding even for planning.TMR has had plans on its table for 20 years and all parties have been consulted multiple times.

Lights will not cater for increased traffic demands but will increase the traffic grid.

Lights at Diamond Street will only infuriate drivers with another set 160 yards [146 metres] away at the school, and signal responses will not be as effective as continual roundabout traffic flow.

I believe $42 million would see two roundabouts (one at Diamond and Elm Streets, and one at Myall and Elm Streets), and a doubling of the rail overpass (on Elm Street) which would include a footpath with a bike lane, guaranteeing no full accident blockages on the overpass. There is no private land resumption and very little to no state land taken up.

Pedestrians maintain safety with raised roundabouts so the traffic comes to 5 km/ hr, wider islands, and there is only the need to look in one direction, the exception being the petrol station on the corner.

Yes, signals will be safer, but not if roundabouts are raised, and single-lane roundabouts have never been an issue because they have to accommodate long loads.

There are also discussions continuing with a Cooroy bypass but that is secondary to the intersections.

TMR can prefer lights all they want but Cooroy has voted for roundabouts. Cooroy’s future prosperity with visitor convenience will rely on roundabouts.

If you agree for TMR to implement two raised roundabouts (bringing traffic to 5km/hr) approaching Cooroy plus doubling the width of the rail overpass (allowing a bike lane and footpath), please sign my petitions in Cooroy at Belvedere Newsagency, Rambling Rose Flowers, The Art Hub and Kookaburra Takeaway. Plans for the intersections are at the back of all petitions. The petition closes on 30 September.

Mike Prior, Cooroy