From today, (Friday 16 June) motorists are advised the speed limit through part of the Coonamble CBD will be reduced to 40 km/h for the safety of pedestrians and other road users.

Transport for NSW Regional Director West Alistair Lunn said Coonamble would see the speed limit on a section of the Castlereagh Highway reduced from 50 km/h to 40 km/h following a speed zone review conducted in response to concerns about pedestrian safety.

“Coonamble Shire Council requested the review in the town’s centre due to high volumes of traffic where there is also a lot of pedestrian activity,” Mr Lunn said.

“The Castlereagh Highway is the main thoroughfare through Coonamble and fronts businesses including supermarkets, bottle shops, a bank, the post office and a bowling club. There is also the local swimming pool and a park.

“These businesses and amenities generate a lot of pedestrian activity in a high-volume traffic environment.

“Castlereagh Street between the Castlereagh Highway and Tooloon Street forms part of the CBD and features a variety of small retail businesses, cafes and other food outlets.

“There are pedestrian crossings along both stretches, all of which make both areas self-regulating slow speed environments.”

In February 2023 Belinda McAlpine, Peter Edmonds and Reg McCauley traversed the intersection outside the Council Chambers which marks the beginning of the planned 40km/hour zone. IMAGE: Coonamble Times

The 40 km/h High Pedestrian Activity Area (HPAA) reduced speed limit will be effective on two roadways.

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The Castlereagh Highway, from 20 metres east of Pages Terrace to 620 metres east of Pages Terrace. The western end of the zone begins just outside the Castlereagh Lodge Motel. The south eastern end is outside the Council offices.

The main street, Castlereagh Street, between Castlereagh Highway and the roundabout at the Tooloon Street intersection.

Aerial view of the 40 km/hour zone. IMAGE: TransportNSW