LEETON shire mayor Paul Maytom believes motorists are being “trapped” in one of the town’s school zones.
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The main school zone in question is on Palm Avenue, just outside the Leeton TAFE campus, but was installed with the safety of students from both Leeton High and Leeton Public in mind.
Councillor Maytom said he has nothing against road safety, rather he is an advocate for it, but he said he would not support motorists being unwittingly trapped and fined for speeding in this particular area.
He said as the zone was behind the two schools, it could be confusing for some motorists.
“When you’re coming from Leeton Public School you come out of the school zone on Wade Avenue, you turn left onto Palm Avenue and then you’re back in another school zone with not much warning,” Cr Maytom said.
“Yes there are the signs up, but there’s no flashing lights.
“It’s a trap. Motorists are getting caught speeding there because they are given very little warning.”
Cr Maytom has spoken with police about the issue and they said many residents have been caught out, thinking the area is 50kmh.
He questioned why the zone didn’t have flashing lights.
“Yes, the flashing lights are installed near the public school and Leeton High, but when you leave those school zones, you’re coming around a corner and there’s no warning,” Cr Maytom said.
“It’s so easy not to notice.
“Some would even question why the school zone needs to be there in the first place.”
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Cr Maytom said he would always be an advocate for road safety, but there were some instances where improvement could be made for the benefit of everyone using this particular area.
“Flashing lights are imperative … drivers need warning because they can be caught out,” he said.
“This area simply doesn’t make sense.
“My point is this. If you’re going to have this as a school zone, they need to inform the motorist.
“Flashing lights are an impact and they do work. You see them and you slow down.
“That is what I think needs to happen down there.
“Of course the safety of children is paramount, especially around our schools.
“That’s why we need those lights there. It’s the best option for everyone.”
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