High Street blues

By Kelly Yates
SEVENTY-three road accidents have occurred along High Street, Cranbourne, over the past five years, VicRoads surveys show.
The accidents involved 69 cars, two trucks, six motorcycles and three bikes.
All collisions occurred between Camms Road and Sladen Street. There were no fatalities.
The speed along that stretch of road is 60km/h, but City of Casey councillor Steve Beardon wants it dropped to 40km/h.
He also wants trucks banned from that stretch of road.
“If Toorak Road can drop down to 40km/h then Cranbourne can. If it’s good enough for them, it’s good enough for us,” Cr Beardon said.
It was difficult for the community to enjoy the shopping strip because the traffic flow through Cranbourne was too high, he said.
A lower speed limit would send a message to trucks to use Western Port instead of High Street.
“We have beautiful cafes, but the noise from the traffic is so loud they are just not appealing to customers,” Cr Beardon said.
“Trucks laden with animal product detract from enjoying a coffee outdoors,” he said.
“The smell of truck fumes and the noise of trucks and cars combined makes it near impossible to have a conversation and outdoor meal. Trucks get out; you’re not welcome; and cars slow down.”
Cr Beardon wants the entrance to Cranbourne signposted ‘No trucks’.
VicRoads had taken the first step to improving the roads by putting in extra traffic lights.
There are five sets within a half-kilometre stretch of High Street.
Wire fencing was also put in place to stop children running out on to the road, but Cr Beardon says despite its effectiveness the design is unattractive.
“It has worked very well, but it’s the worst design possible. The wire fence is extremely ugly.”
The councillor wants the centre fencing redesigned or replaced with attractive plant boxes and additional trees.
“Colourful shrubs in plant boxes and lights in the trees would be just as effective but nicer to look at.”
The width of the road could be compared to that of the Monash Freeway, he says.
“We have six lanes and including the parking bays it’s eight lanes wide.”
He said by removing a lane, the footpaths could be extended and angled parking added.
“Trying to cross from one side of High Street to the other is like crossing the MCG.”