URGENT UPDATE: The State Government has just announced a significant shift in traffic regulations affecting construction zones across the Central Coast. This bold move, part of their election commitment, aims to remove unnecessary speed limits outside of construction hours where it is deemed safe.
Member for Gosford, Liesl Tesch, emphasized the positive impact this change will have, especially in areas like the Central Coast, where over $800 million in road projects are currently underway. Notably, the $19 million major upgrade of Blackwall Rd in Woy Woy is among the key projects. Tesch stated, “With so many major road upgrades in progress, we all know the frustration of getting stuck doing roadwork speed restrictions outside of construction hours.”
Residents have voiced their concerns about being forced to adhere to construction speed limits even when no work is taking place. Many have reported the added time to their daily commutes due to these outdated regulations. Tesch reassured constituents, stating, “This change is about striking the right balance, ensuring that speed limits are appropriate and therefore respected, while ensuring that workers are always protected when present on the job.”
Currently, construction speed limits remain in effect even outside of active work hours. While some road closures may still necessitate speed reductions for safety, it is common for drivers to slow down on unobstructed roads, causing unnecessary delays. The Transport Legislation Amendment Bill 2025, recently presented to Parliament, mandates that all road authorities, including councils and their contractors, must install, maintain, and remove speed limit signs in compliance with a new standard set to be published by Transport for NSW.
This commonsense approach ensures that if there are no workers present and the road is unobstructed, motorists will be allowed to return to normal driving conditions. This framework is already successfully implemented in states like Victoria and South Australia, highlighting the effectiveness of the change.
The new standard is expected to be finalized by the end of the year, following stakeholder consultations. Implementation is projected for next year, offering relief to commuters in the Central Coast area.
As this legislation unfolds, it promises to significantly improve daily travel for countless residents, enhancing road safety while minimizing unnecessary delays. Expect updates as the situation develops.
