Roundabout runaround

By Kelly Yates
TRAFFIC congestion in Narre Warren North’s main hub is proving to be an ongoing concern for residents and businesses.
Casey council officers are investigating the traffic concerns in Main Street after a petition with around 40 signatures was presented to the council earlier this month.
Endeavour Hills resident Paul Richardson spent around five hours door-knocking throughout Narre Warren North, saying he believed a roundabout was needed at the intersection of Main Street and Winters Lane.
“A roundabout will slow the traffic down. We need more safety for the residents,” Mr Richardson said.
But businessman Marco Ciavarella, who owns Marco’s IGA in Narre Warren North, said he didn’t believe a roundabout was the solution.
“It’s a very narrow road and I don’t think putting a roundabout in would achieve anything,” he said.
Mr Ciavarella suggested placing a traffic island in the middle of the road or making Winters Lane a one-way street.
“Many cars travel along Winters Lane to get to the school, pre-school and tennis courts so I think it would work if it was a one-way street,” he said.
Many residents are also calling on Casey Council to install a pedestrian crossing near Winters Lane.
Narre Warren North Primary School principal Connie vanderVoort agreed that a school crossing was needed.
“We have 385 students at the school. A school crossing would be very beneficial,” she said.
Narre Warren North resident Bert Rae said the road situation around Winters Lane certainly needed improving.
“I believe something needs to be done,” he said.
Casey councillor Shar Balmes said the road network in Narre Warren North wasn’t keeping up with the population growth.
“The area is getting busier and busier and these traffic issues must be addressed,” she said.
“The whole area of Narre Warren North needs to be investigated.”
Cr Balmes, who has been living in Narre Warren North for the past six years, said she had seen “phenomenal growth” over recent years.
City of Casey transport manager Paul Hamilton said council officers would report back to the council on their findings.