A Road Safety Study looks at safety issues for everyone using the road. It may suggest ways to reduce crashes and make crashes less severe, including:

• reducing conflicts between different types of transport, with a focus on pedestrians and cyclists
• slowing vehicles where they interact with pedestrians and cyclists
• making crossings safer and easier to use for people of all ages and abilities
• reviewing crash data, road conditions and behaviour to identify targeted improvements

A study's primary focus is improving road safety. Any traffic restrictions requested as part of a study (such as road closures or access changes) would only be considered where there is a clear safety need supported by evidence.

We’ve had ongoing reports of unsafe behaviour and other hazards to road users within the study area. The area was previously identified through the Fitzroy North Local Area Place Making Plan. We are taking a fresh look and exploring what else might improve road safety outcomes. We’ll combine crash data, community feedback, and site observations to identify ways to improve accessibility and safety for everyone using Brunswick Street North and Holden Street. Any recommendations will be based on evidence and focused on improving road safety.

The installation of a median on Holden Street to prevent right turns into and out of Brunswick Street North and Dean Street was an endorsed recommendation of the Fitzroy North Local Area Place Making (LAPM) plan.

Council investigated the proposal, however the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) did not support it, as they were concerned the change may increase delays for trams and buses on surrounding roads, including Nicholson Street, St Georges Road and Holden Street.

The study is focused on road safety issues in the area bounded by Holden Street, Brunswick Street North, Park Street and Rae Street, and includes the Capital City Trail crossings at Rae Street and Brunswick Street North.

However, you can let us know if there is a road safety issue outside of the study area and we will review your concern. If it is a road safety issue, we’ll look at its priority and decide the best way to address it. This may be through this project, another Council project, or a future Road Safety Study.

You can also call us on 9205 5555 or email [email protected] to let us know your concern.

The introduction of 30 km/h speed limits is not a focus of this Road Safety Study. You can provide feedback on any road safety issues and let us know if you support or oppose lower speeds in the area as part of your feedback.

Lower vehicle speeds can improve road safety by reducing the likelihood and severity of crashes, particularly for pedestrians and cyclists.

Council recently completed a 30 km/h speed limit trial on local streets in parts of Fitzroy and Collingwood. We are currently working with the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) to seek approval for the speed limit to become permanent.

We know that traffic volumes and congestion on local streets are a concern for some community members, particularly during peak periods. However, the focus of this study is on improving road safety rather than increasing vehicle capacity or reducing traffic congestion.

Where there is a clearly identified road safety issue and strong evidence that a change would improve safety, traffic management changes such as road closures or access restrictions may be considered. Local access, travel times, traffic redistribution and the needs of people walking, cycling and driving would also be checked.

In some locations, particularly around schools, activity centres and areas with high numbers of vulnerable road users, there may be opportunities to consider traffic management changes where a major road safety benefit can be demonstrated.

This study is focused on road safety. If you have concerns about other matters, such as street lighting, personal safety, parking, or maintenance issues, please contact Council on 9205 5555 or email [email protected]. Your enquiry can then be referred to the appropriate Council team for assessment and action.

Yes. Fire, Ambulance and Police emergency services will be consulted during the study.