Change is underway in Avalon Beach, as Council rolls out a one-way shared zone on Old Barrenjoey Road, making it safer and easier for pedestrians to move through the village.
It's all part of the Streets as Shared Spaces project, funded by the NSW Government.
Preparation for this trial will commence in October and is expected to be completed in December 2022. The trial will run for at least six months. During this time, the community is invited to share their feedback as they experience the new shared space.
Northern Beaches CEO Ray Bronwlee said the project is an important part of the recently adopted Avalon Place Plan.
"After years of community consultation and detailed consideration by the elected Council, the Avalon Place Plan has been endorsed and includes some exciting and much needed improvements to Avalon Beach Village," Ray Brownlee said.
"Our priority is creating a place for people. Streets as shared spaces will create a safer and more people-centred experience for locals and visitors moving through Avalon Beach Village."
Improving the Old Barrenjoey Road and Avalon Parade intersection was a major issue identified through the Avalon Place Plan community consultation.
"Thank you to everyone who has provided feedback on this issue. Together, we will create a place for people and a vibrant, safe and inclusive Avalon Beach Village," Mr Bronwlee said.
The project is being delivered over Spring to allow the space to be fully operational in Summer.
The main changes include:
- 10km/h Shared Zone at Old Barrenjoey Road North
- Introducing one-way traffic flow in a section of Old Barrenjoey Road (south bound)
- Removing nine on-street parking spaces to provide safer pedestrian access
- Improving pedestrian crossings at the intersection of Old Barrenjoey Road and Avalon Parade
- widening footpaths to create more space for pedestrians
- additional seating and plants
- adjusting bus and taxi services
- relocating loading zones.
Council will work closely with local resident associations and the wider community to seek ongoing feedback throughout the six-month trial. Traffic counts and pedestrian observation studies will also be carried out to evaluate the project.
