Crossing concept for Patonga

Gosford Council has agreed to undertake pedestrian and vehicle counts in Patonga and to prepare a concept plan for a pedestrian refuge in the vicinity of the Patonga Hotel.

The Local Traffic Committee considered the request by Roads and Maritime Services for a pedestrian crossing at its meeting on Monday, February 6.

The report stated that the owner of Patonga Hotel had concerns that the area of Patonga Dr immediately outside the hotel was a safety risk for younger pedestrians, despite the 40km/h speed limit.

The 40km/h speed limit extends from the bottom of the hill leading into Patonga.

The report stated the area had high parking demand and pedestrian activities, especially on weekends in the summer months.

A State Government review of the Patonga Plan of Management was being prepared to consider how to deal with Crown land at Patonga.

Some of the existing foreshore car park had been constructed within Crown land and the Plan of Management may require that it be relocated which would narrow Patonga Dr.

According to the report, due to the mixed use nature of the area, there appeared to be no discernible pattern of pedestrian movements which would indicate a defined desire line.

No pedestrian counts had been carried out.

However, council staff observations indicated that a pedestrian crossing may not be warranted.

According to the report, the carriageway in front of the hotel was 13 metres wide which would present safety issues for a pedestrian crossing.

The area along the waterfront adjacent to the wharf had a complex mix of parking manoeuvres and pedestrian activity.

The crash database showed no reported crashes in this section of road in the years 2006 to 2010.

Following discussion of options to provide a pedestrian facility, it was agreed that Council undertake pedestrian and vehicle counts in Patonga and prepare a concept plan for a pedestrian refuge in the vicinity of the Patonga Hotel.

Gosford Council Agenda TR.12.01, 6 Mar 2012