Oh No!.... the speed signs won’t go

Remove Macrossan Speed Signs

Bryan Littlely

Journalist

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The Department of Transport and Main Roads has no plans to reconsider the road signage plan for new Macrossan Street speed limits. Picture: Byron Filmer

The Department of Transport and Main Roads will not remove the bright red, overstated road speed zone markings in Macrossan Street.

And in a move that will further frustrate those behind the now more than 300 comments on social media complaining about the road painting and its “devastating” destruction of Port Douglas’s appeal, those behind the decision don’t want to put their name to it.

Responding more than 24 hours after Newsport first asked if the shocking signage would be removed, a Department of Transport and Main Roads spokesperson responded:

“Speeding is one of the leading causes of fatalities and serious injuries on Queensland’s roads.

“The speed limit on two sections of Port Douglas Road (known locally as Macrossan Street) was reduced earlier this month to improve safety.

“This was part of the Vulnerable Road Users program, a Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) statewide initiative to enhance safety measures in areas with high pedestrian activity, such as town centres.

“The speed limit reduction included installation of speed zone entry pavement markings at designated locations to alert motorists of the different speed zones.

“The pavement markings were installed in accordance with TMR guidelines and are effective in making motorists aware of the initial change of a speed zone in an area.

“The pavement markings are in place for the safety of road users.

“We encourage motorists to drive to conditions and posted speed limits at all times.’’

The Department of Transport and Main Roads has rejected Newsport’s request to provide a name of the person making the calls that have outraged the Port Douglas community which is eager to lobby them to reconsider the move.

It comes as concern over the impact on the appeal of Port Douglas grows, and with some expressing on social media plans to artistically paint over the warning signs.

“You need to get a street artist in to paint over them with murals. They look terrible. Such a shame to destroy the prettiest town in Aust,’’ wrote Megan Beckerley.

Janet Morris said: “Please note my disdain for this eyesore. Thank you Newsport for highlighting what seems to be a majority opinion against these painted speed signs. Aesthetic consideration for our little town please.’’

“What an eyesore” and “Oh my goodness” were other comments made on Newsport’s story, while John Guerillot summed it up: “That looks bloody awful”.

Newsport sent questions to Queensland Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg and Tourism Minister Andrew Powell but had not received a response from either.

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