Cr Manchester said council have resolved to take a closer look at the issue and parking right across the shire and will seek public comment on the issue, as the change of parking should be a shire wide decision.
Council is also introducing nose in (45 degree) parking into the Murrumburrah shopping area as a trial.
“The new parking arrangements, envisaged to be completed when the new speed zone comes into effect, will be completed in the zones of Albury Street, Lyons to Vernon Streets, southern side, and Bathurst to Vernon Streets, northern side,” Mr Kershaw said.
“The public is urged to make written comment upon the parking changes, either for or against, or even just to provide a general comment.
“Written submissions will be received by post, over the counter at the Council Chambers or by email.
“If we don’t receive any feedback the trial may become a reality.
“We are trying to tidy up the town and make it safer for all,” Mr Kershaw said.
Mr Kershaw is urging members of the local community to be involved in the decision making process, whether that is through letters to the Express or through written communication to the council.
Local shop owners in Murrumburrah the Express spoke to all agree that nose in parking is a safer and smarter option.
Motorists from Victoria and Canberra already do it when they visit Harden – Murrumburrah.
Council hopes to find a balance between safety and the community’s interest and they can only do this with your help.
Cootamundra highway patrol sergeant, team leader Dan Moylan said his officers will enforce whatever speed limit the RTA deemed appropriate for the road.
“We feel the proposal has merit and definitely compliments the positive vision the local council has, especially for the Murrumburrah development,” Sergeant Moylan said.
“The RTA are in the process of conducting an extensive review with the focus being on safety.
“We have the same goal (as the RTA) of road safety and support the RTA’s decision.
“We will enforce the speed limit applicable to the section of road,” Sergeant Moylan said.
Highway patrol officer have clearly done their research and found that by restricting the speed to 50km/h, it will take the average motorist an extra 33 seconds to go through town.
However as Sergeant Moylan pointed out, hitting a pedestrian or another motorist at 50 km/h can make a significant difference to the degree of injury.
Earlier this year, Albury Street was the scene of a tragic fatal accident, and council, police and the RTA hope that by reducing the speed limit they can avoid another family enduring the same fate.
So whether you agree or disagree the council would like to hear from you. All written responses can be kept anonymous. For more information contact the Harden Shire Council.
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