High Pedestrian Activity Areas (HPAAs) - The Esplanade and Military Road, Mosman

Mosman Council is seeking feedback on the proposed High Pedestrian Activity Areas (HPAAs) for The Esplanade and Military Road (from Spit Junction to Centenary Circle). The proposal includes reducing the speed limit from 50km/h to 40km/h at all times and introducing traffic calming measures such as raised pedestrian crossings, kerb buildouts, and speed cushions.

Background

To address pedestrian safety concerns in high-traffic areas, implementation of High Pedestrian Activity Areas (HPAAs) has been proposed along The Esplanade and Military Road. These areas experience significant foot traffic due to their proximity to shopping strips, schools, community hubs, and the beachfront, leading to frequent interactions between vehicles and pedestrians.

The proposed HPAAs align with Transport for NSW Speed Zone Standard July 2023 and are designed to reduce vehicle speeds, support compliance with the new regulations, and enhance the safety of all road users, particularly pedestrians, cyclists, and children.

Key elements of the proposal include:

Military Road (Spit Junction to Centenary Circle)

a. Reducing the speed limit on Military Road from 50km/h to 40km/h.

b. Extending the HPAA to the School Zones of Mosman Public School and Mosman High School on Belmont Road, Gladstone Avenue and Avenue Road.

c. Installing a raised pedestrian crossing between Almora Street and Gouldsbury Street, designed to improve pedestrian safety. This will result in a removal of six on-street parking spaces on Military Road to accommodate the raised pedestrian crossing and to comply with Transport for NSW requirements.

d. Installing 40km/h speed limit signs and pavement markings on both sides of the carriageway to clearly indicate the reduced speed zone.

The Esplanade

a. Reducing the speed limit on The Esplanade from 50km/h to 40km/h.

b. Extending the HPAAs to the School Zones in Mandolong Road, Waitovu Street, Raglan Street and Esther Road.

c. Installing a raised platform at the intersection of The Esplanade and Awaba Street, incorporating the existing pedestrian crossing.

d. Upgrading the existing at-grade pedestrian crossing on Raglan Street at The Esplanade to a raised crossing with kerb buildouts to improve sight lines.

e. Installing a speed cushion on Plunkett Road to reduce vehicle speeds as they approach the HPAA.

f. Installing 40km/h HPAA signage and road markings to alert drivers to the lower speed limit and increase their awareness of pedestrians moving about or near the road.

Key Benefits

By reducing vehicle speed and increasing awareness of pedestrians, the proposed HPAA aims to enhance pedestrian safety, reduce the frequency and severity of crashes, and increase overall community liveability.

Lower vehicle speeds are proven to reduce risk of pedestrian injury. According to Transport for NSW, a pedestrian hit by a car travelling at 40km/h has twice the chance of surviving the collision than if the car was travelling 50km/h. Traffic calming measures like raised crossings, kerb buildouts, and speed cushions will slow vehicles and improve pedestrian visibility for drivers, making it safer for pedestrians to cross.

Beyond safety, the HPAA will enhance Mosman’s walkability and foster a more pedestrian-friendly community.

Have Your Say

We are seeking residents' and businesses' (both within and beyond the proposed HPAA) feedback to understand community priorities and concerns. This inclusive approach ensures all voices are considered in shaping the final proposal, helping to create a safer, more pedestrian-friendly environment to benefit the broader community. It is expected that the outcomes of this community consultation will be presented to the next available Council meeting in 2025.

Next Step

A report of this matter will be submitted to the Local Traffic Committee and/or Council for further consideration. All feedback will be considered, however it is not intended to reply to individual respondents.

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Please complete the online surveys below before 26 February 2025 to Have Your Say.