General News
9 August, 2024
Council acts on pedestrian crossing feedback , know the rules
Pedestrian crossing to be redesigned after community feedback
Newly installed pedestrian crossings at the Firebrace and McLachlan Streets roundabout will soon be re-designed following community consultation.
Feedback, including from Horsham Rural City Council's disability advisory committee has highlighted concerns about the humps in the wombat crossings, which pose challenges for people pushing prams or using mobility scooters.
Council will implement the following changes
Remove Raised Humps: Replace the wombat crossings with road-level zebra crossings.
Install Speed Cushions: Place speed cushions before the zebra crossings to slow down approaching cars.
Enhance Signage and Awareness: Improve signage with "give way to pedestrian" signs and consider installing flashing lights.
The advisory committee also emphasised the need for further education on road rules surrounding pedestrian crossings.
Pedestrian crossing rules
According to Horsham Police Senior Sergeant Brendan Broadbent, who recently gave the following advice, pedestrians have the right of way at marked crossings, and drivers must stop and give way to them.
"Drivers must also give way to pedestrians crossing the road into which their vehicles are turning, even when there is no marked crossing. Failing to do so can result in fines and demerit points," Snr Sgt Broadbent said.
"Pedestrians also have responsibilities when crossing the road. They must cross by the shortest and safest route, and not stay on the road longer than necessary.
"They must not cross within 20 metres of a crossing, except at the crossing or another crossing, unless there are special circumstances.
"They must also avoid crossing the road while distracted by devices or impaired by alcohol or drugs."
A HRCC spokesperson said cars must give way to pedestrians on the crossings both when approaching and exiting the roundabouts.
"It is legal to wait within the roundabout to ensure motorists give way to pedestrians," they said.
When travelling towards a pedestrian crossing, you must drive at a speed so that you can stop safely.
At a pedestrian crossing, you must give way to any pedestrian on or about to step on the crossing and not overtake another vehicle that has stopped at the crossing.
Drivers must wait until the pedestrian crossing is clear before beginning to cross it.
The group said the new crossings were installed to improve the CBD's accessibility and amenities and encourage more people to walk and shop in the area.
They said that the crossings were designed to be visible and convenient for pedestrians, slow down traffic, and create a safer environment for everyone.
The group urged drivers and pedestrians to be more aware and courteous towards each other and to follow the rules and signs at the crossings.
They said that doing so would help prevent accidents and injuries and make Horsham CBD a more pleasant and attractive place to visit.
A HRCC spokesperson said the design changes were scheduled to take place within the next two to three weeks.