A spotlight on one-star roads

Picture: Till Spielhoff  - A 70km/hr to 60km/hr speed limit change on a local road.

Trial rollout now complete

The Safer Speeds Trial rollout is now complete, with all signs now installed across the shire. The trial is focused on reducing risk and improving safety across the Shire’s local road network. 

As part of the trial, speed limits have been changed on many roads west of Bussell Hwy to improve safety outcomes. While the changes apply broadly across the network, some roads are of particular concern due to low safety ratings, like Cowaramup Bay Road, Redgate Road and others.

These roads have the lowest possible safety rating, just one star out of five. They’re narrow, with no edge lines, unsealed shoulders, large trees on the verge and no safety barriers. 

Shire President Julia Jean-Rice said that while the trial spans a wide range of roads, understanding these risk ratings is key to appreciating why change is needed.

“Changing speed limits is one of the most efficient and cost-effective ways to immediately reduce the risk of death or serious injury,” Ms Jean-Rice said. 

“Every life lost on our roads is one too many.”

Roads like Cowaramup Bay Road, now 70 km/h (reduced from 100 km/h), are examples of local and regional routes which are lacking safety infrastructure. 

“Even on long, straight stretches where people feel confident driving fast, a one-star road offers very little protection in the event of a crash,” Ms Jean-Rice said. 

“That’s why reducing speed is such an effective safety measure.”

Community input has also shaped the trial, with an average of 58% of respondents supporting lower speed limits across all road types. 

The Safer Speeds Trial is a partnership between the Shire of Augusta Margaret River and RAC, with implementation support from Main Roads WA. 

Feedback can be provided at any time via yoursay.amrshire.wa.gov.au/safer-speeds-trial-2. All feedback received will be considered as part of the 12-month trial review.

More information about the trial, including road maps, FAQs and evidence supporting the changes, is available at www.saferspeedstrial.com.au.