Residents and commuters in Nundah can look forward to safer streets, as a major upgrade is underway at the intersection of Melton Road and Nellie Street.
The project, funded by the Australian Government’s Black Spot Program, aims to address a history of accidents and improve conditions for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists alike.
Between 2017 and 2021, this intersection witnessed seven reported crashes, two of which resulted in hospitalisations. Authorities identified the primary cause as drivers attempting turns with insufficient gaps in traffic, a consequence of extended delays at the intersection and poor visibility due to current parking arrangements.
Photo Credit: Google Map
The Brisbane City Council is implementing a comprehensive safety upgrade to combat these issues. Key improvements include:
Construction of two new pedestrian refuges on Nellie Street, providing safe havens for those crossing Melton Road.
Extension of ‘no stopping’ lines and removal of some informal parking to significantly enhance visibility for all road users.
Realignment of kerbs and footpaths, coupled with the addition of pram ramps on all corners, to ensure accessibility and smooth pedestrian flow.
Installation of additional stop signs on Nellie Street to reinforce traffic control and reduce the risk of collisions.
These measures are expected to significantly reduce the risk of accidents and create a more pedestrian-friendly environment. The project also includes landscaping and new line marking to enhance the intersection’s overall aesthetic. This initiative reflects the Council’s ongoing commitment to improving road safety throughout Brisbane.
Signs along Melton Road, specifically between Toombul Road in Northgate to Buckland Road in Nundah, have been installed informing of the speed limit changes, effected February 2023, so that all motorists can slow down and keep the roads safer.
Cr Adam Allan said that the change was adapted to keep the speed consistent and “suitable for the road and the surrounding usage,” especially following the completion of the Melton and Hows Roads.
Per Council, the said intersection is accessed by over 15,000 vehicles, 35 cylists and hundreds of pedestrians a day. Its volume has been projected to increase, especially during peak hours, by 2031. Thus, the new roundabout had to be built, alongside a new pedestrian crossing and shared paths. It has also prompted a need to change the speed limit.
“This will be consistent with the remaining southern section of Melton Road that is already 50km/h and remove confusion where the speed limit currently varies,” Mr Allan said.
“My request for this change was approved via the Speed Management Committee which is comprised of representatives from the State Department of Transport and Main Roads, the Queensland Police Service and the relevant local council.”
