As the festive season approaches, Westfield Carousel in Cannington is preparing for its annual traffic chaos with a comprehensive traffic management plan designed to ease congestion during the busiest shopping period of the year.
Traffic Management Strategy Unveiled
The City of Canning has approved a peak-season traffic management plan to handle the expected surge of shoppers during Black Friday and Christmas. The plan will be activated from November 27 to 30 for Black Friday sales and again from December 11 to 28 for the Christmas rush.
According to city officials, the strategy focuses on managing traffic flow around key access points including Cecil Avenue, Gross Avenue and Liege Street. Shopping centre management confirmed they will open and close carpark entries as needed while deploying additional staff to direct shoppers to available parking bays.
Perth's Most Dangerous Carpark
The traffic measures come after Westfield Carousel was identified as Perth's riskiest shopping centre carpark in an RAC survey of more than 6000 people. The finding was supported by thousands of insurance claims, highlighting the centre's reputation for collisions and congestion.
Rogue shopping trolleys, confusing layouts and impatient drivers were identified as the main contributors to the carpark's dangerous reputation. RAC spokesman Glen Walker advised shoppers to allow extra time, check mirrors and blind spots carefully, and remain vigilant for pedestrians and other vehicles.
Community Reaction and Official Response
Local residents have expressed mixed reactions to the traffic management plan on the City of Canning's Facebook page. Some criticised the frequent closure of carpark entrances and exits, while others supported more strategic management of traffic flow.
The city clarified that while they approved the traffic management plan, Westfield Carousel and their traffic management personnel will be responsible for implementing the actual traffic control measures.
A Westfield Carousel spokesperson acknowledged this is their busiest period and confirmed they have a comprehensive plan developed in collaboration with Main Roads, the City of Canning and an external traffic management company.
Canning Mayor Patrick Hall urged motorists to exercise patience during the festive season. "It's that time of year again when the hunt for a parking spot can feel like a competitive sport," he said. "If you're heading to Carousel, please pack your patience, show a little courtesy on the roads and extend some festive goodwill to your fellow community members."
Shoppers are advised to plan their routes carefully and allow additional travel time when visiting Westfield Carousel during the upcoming peak shopping periods.
