NEW speed limit changes along Lemon Tree Passage Road have sparked anger among some residents.

The new changes to the speed limits, starting from the Nelson Bay Road roundabout at Salt Ash through to Lemon Tree Passage, came into force on 18 July.

Residents have gone to social media and local community Facebook pages to voice their concerns and share their experiences regarding the new changes.

Cassie Beer, who lives in Medowie and travels along the road for work, told News Of The Area, “In two weeks, I have seen a four car pile-up and a severe road rage incident.”

“I’ve seen many people driving dangerously and recklessly overtaking other people who are abiding by the new limits.”

Another resident from Tanilba Bay, who wished to remain anonymous, said, “The new limits are punishing the people who are doing the right thing and following the law.”

“The people who were speeding and causing accidents were already doing the wrong thing in the first place.”
“Instead of doing 10km/h over the speed limit, now they’re doing 20,” she said.

RMS figures state there have been 43 car crashes along Lemon Tree Passage Road in the five years leading to December 2015.

Multiple people have gone to the community Facebook page to share their experiences of road rage due to the new speeds, with these ranging from being tailgated to people flashing their high-beams at them.

It is estimated the new changes should add a total of one minute and 30 seconds to the journey from Lemon Tree Passage to the Nelson Bay Road roundabout.

 

By Simone JOHNSON