Canning Council Moves to Lower Speed Limit on High Road Amid Safety Debate
The City of Canning is facing a contentious decision as council staff recommend formally applying to Main Roads to reduce the speed limit on High Road from 70km/h to 60km/h, despite overwhelming public opposition. A recent survey revealed that 74.4% of respondents, or 322 out of 433 participants, do not support the proposed change, with many criticizing it as likely to increase congestion and travel times.
Safety Concerns Drive Proposal Despite Public Backlash
The proposal, stemming from a city safety audit conducted over a year ago, aims to address safety issues on High Road, a district distributor road that carries more than 24,000 vehicles daily. From 2020 to 2024, the road was the site of more than 400 crashes, including one fatal incident. Council reports indicate that vehicle speed is a key factor in crash frequency and severity, with a reduction estimated to decrease kill and serious injury crashes by 19 to 63%.
Staff argue that the mix of land uses along High Road, including residential areas, schools, shopping centers, and commercial zones, generates high pedestrian and traffic movements, justifying the speed cut. The plan also includes extending a 40km/h school zone in front of Lynwood Senior High School to enhance safety for students.
Public Outcry and Supportive Voices Clash
Opponents of the reduction have voiced strong objections, labeling the proposal "absurd" and warning it could lead to increased driver frustration and aggressive behaviors. One respondent suggested raising the limit to 80km/h instead, citing existing congestion that often prevents drivers from reaching the current 70km/h limit. Others blamed accidents on driver distractions, such as phone use, rather than speed.
However, some residents, particularly those with driveways fronting High Road, support the change. A letter drop to these households showed 66% in favor, with respondents highlighting personal experiences of accidents and difficulties accessing driveways safely. Supporters argue that 70km/h is too fast for built-up areas, prioritizing car efficiency over the safety of all road users.
Technical Assessments and Global Safety Data
Council reports note that the speed reduction would increase travel time by approximately 46 seconds over the full corridor, but with signalized intersections and peak congestion, the practical impact is expected to be minor. Research from the Global Road Safety Partnership supports the change, showing that reducing speed from 70km/h to 60km/h shortens braking distances and reaction times, enhancing safety in both dry and wet conditions.
According to the Austroads Guide to Road Safety, even a 5km/h reduction in urban areas can lower casualty crashes by up to 26%, significantly protecting pedestrians and cyclists. The council is set to make a final decision at its upcoming ordinary meeting next Tuesday night, weighing public sentiment against safety recommendations.
