FAQs

Princes Road functions as a two-way distributor road under the care and control of the City of Mitcham. Traffic data along Princes Road indicates that the road carries approximately 5,000 vehicles per day. The road forms part of a public transport route and is additionally serviced by the Mitcham community bus.

Investigations into this area have revealed high pedestrian usage, particularly by vulnerable and elderly groups accessing shops and services. There are currently some minor disruptions to traffic and pedestrian flow due to confusion regarding give way requirements. Previously, a petition was received by Council requesting consideration to install a pedestrian crossing in Princes Road adjacent to the Goodlife Gym. The proposed design solution addresses these concerns and similar designs have improved pedestrian safety in other locations.

A wombat crossing is a Department of Infrastructure and Transport (DIT) approved traffic control device that supports pedestrian connectivity whilst slowing vehicle speeds.

A wombat crossing on Princes Road adjacent Mitcham Shopping Centre will enhance the safety of pedestrians who use the area, particularly vulnerable and elderly groups accessing nearby shops and services. The proposed wombat crossing will incorporate a raised platform with line marking, flashing lights and improved road lighting.

Initially three different traffic calming devices were considered:

1. Pedestrian Actuated Crossing (Traffic Signal)
2. Painted Zebra Crossing
3. Raised Wombat Crossing

These options were reviewed by a third party traffic engineering consultant who determined that a wombat crossing was considered most appropriate at this location. The proposed treatment has been designed in accordance with all provisions of Australian Standards and other DIT required standards.

Raised wombat crossings improve pedestrian safety and encourage motorists to slow down on approach to the crossing. A recent study has showed that wombat crossings can lower casualty rates by over 60% and are effective at reducing vehicle speeds.

There will be minimal to no impact towards existing on-street parking arrangements with the construction of a new wombat crossing.

You can share your ideas and feedback by completing the online survey at yoursay.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au/princes-road-crossing or email your comments including your name and address to yoursay@mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au

Following the community engagement period, Council will assess the submissions and formal correspondence on the outcome of the proposal will be provided to the directly affected residents, businesses, and respondents of the survey.

The first step of the project is to seek your views on the proposed wombat crossing. The detailed design will then be prepared incorporating community feedback. Further notifications will be distributed once the project moves to implementation stage.