Current Situation
- Residents across Sorell Municipality have raised concerns about speeding and unsafe driving behaviour in local streets, particularly in areas where people walk, cycle and live close to the road.
- In areas such as Lewisham Scenic Drive and other residential roads, residents have reported vehicles travelling at excessive speeds, using local roads as shortcuts and creating safety concerns for pedestrians, cyclists and other road users.
- Current speed enforcement resources are limited, and Council has limited tools available to directly engage with drivers about their speed behaviour.
- A mobile “smiley face” radar sign provides a visible reminder to drivers of their speed by displaying a positive message when they are travelling at or below the speed limit and a warning when they are exceeding it.
The Issue
- Speeding is one of the biggest contributors to road safety concerns in residential areas.
- Many drivers may not realise they are travelling above the speed limit, particularly on quieter roads where there is less traffic.
- Traditional enforcement methods alone do not provide a constant presence or encourage ongoing behaviour change.
- Residents want practical solutions that improve safety and encourage drivers to slow down before more serious incidents occur.
My Plan
- Advocate for Sorell Council to purchase a portable mobile smiley face radar speed sign that can be deployed across the municipality.
- Work with residents, community groups and local businesses to identify priority locations where speeding concerns exist.
- Use community feedback, traffic data and crash risk assessments to determine where the radar should be placed.
- Rotate the mobile radar sign between locations including residential streets, school zones, community facilities and areas identified by residents as safety concerns.
- Monitor the effectiveness of the sign by collecting speed data and reporting back to the community on outcomes.
- Continue working with Tasmania Police and the State Government on broader road safety measures where additional enforcement or infrastructure upgrades are required.
The Benefits
- Provides an immediate visual reminder to drivers to slow down and follow the speed limit.
- Encourages safer driving behaviour without relying solely on penalties and enforcement.
- Gives Council a practical tool to respond quickly to community concerns about speeding.
- Improves safety for pedestrians, cyclists, children and residents using local roads.
- Builds stronger engagement between Council and residents by allowing the community to identify and help address road safety issues.
- Provides useful data to support future decisions about speed reduction measures, traffic calming and infrastructure improvements.