Speed Limit Reduced to 30km/h at Leighton Beach to Enhance Pedestrian Safety
A new 30km/h speed limit will be introduced on the roads surrounding Leighton Beach in North Fremantle, effective from April 6, as part of a major safety overhaul. The decision, announced by Main Roads, targets Leighton Beach Boulevard and Freeman Loop, aiming to address growing concerns over vehicle speeds in this increasingly popular recreational precinct.
Safety Review Prompts Speed Reduction
The move follows a comprehensive safety review initiated after residents raised alarms in December 2025, arguing that the previous speed environment was no longer suitable for the heightened activity levels. A spokesperson for Main Roads confirmed that the City of Fremantle submitted a formal request for the review to improve safety outcomes.
The primary objective is to ensure vehicle speeds align with the existing road environment and to bolster safety for pedestrians accessing Leighton Beach. According to the spokesperson, 30km/h speed limits are deemed appropriate for recreational areas where pedestrians and cyclists frequently interact with vehicles on local access roads.
Community Backing and Resident Advocacy
A petition from residents, calling for the speed limit on Leighton Beach Boulevard to be lowered to 30km/h, was formally lodged with the city at its February 10 meeting. Darren Bracewell, a local advocate, presented the case to the council, highlighting that a lower limit would be a low-cost, easily reversible solution requiring only two new speed limit signs.
Bracewell emphasized that the idea had overwhelming community support, with 28 out of 30 residents in his residential complex backing the change. He noted that Leighton Beach has transformed from a local swimming spot into a vibrant year-round destination, featuring:
- A spectacular amphitheatre
- Busy barbecue facilities
- A growing hub of hospitality venues
- One of Perth's largest surf clubs by membership
It is a premier destination for Perth families, Bracewell stated, but this popularity has created a high-density pedestrian zone. Leighton Beach Boulevard serves as one of only three critical connection points to the beach and water, yet currently lacks the safety framework to match the high foot traffic.
Statistical Evidence and Safety Impact
Bracewell provided compelling statistics to support the reduction, noting that the survival rate for pedestrians hit by a car travelling at 50km/h is just 10 per cent, but jumps to 90 per cent at 30km/h. That 10 per cent difference is the difference between tragedy and a near-miss, he argued, adding that this statistic alone provides the moral and logical evidence required to act.
Despite the concerns, Main Roads has reported no history of crashes on Leighton Beach Boulevard, underscoring the proactive nature of this measure.
Local Council Support and Broader Implications
Councillor Melanie Clark voiced strong support for the speed limit cut, citing numerous resident requests for traffic calming measures. I don't know if it's because cars are getting bigger, but drivers seem to think they can go faster and just hoon through areas, she remarked. It's really about resident safety and slowing things down a lot through our town.
The implementation of the 30km/h limit is expected to significantly enhance safety for the mix of pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles in this bustling beach precinct, aligning with broader efforts to create safer urban environments.
