Motorists will soon be banned from turning right into or out of Mortimer Road at Falls Creek, with the NSW Government announcing safety changes for the busy intersection with the Princes Highway following a series of serious crashes.
The changes, announced by Jenny Aitchison, will include a painted median, flexible bollards, new signage, updated line marking and minor shoulder widening to prevent right turns at the intersection.
According to Transport for NSW, a safety investigation identified an emerging pattern of rear-end crashes involving northbound vehicles waiting to turn right from the Princes Highway into Mortimer Road.
The investigation followed several serious crashes at or near the intersection, including a crash in June that claimed the lives of two people.
Under the new arrangement, northbound motorists wanting to access Mortimer Road will instead travel via Gardner Road and the new Jervis Bay Interchange, which is expected to open in coming weeks. Motorists leaving Mortimer Road or Gardner Road and heading north will also use the interchange, while left-turn access at the intersection will remain.
Jenny Aitchison said the changes would reduce the risk of crashes by preventing vehicles from slowing or stopping in the northbound lane while waiting to turn across highway traffic.
“This change follows a comprehensive investigation by Transport for NSW after a series of serious crashes at or near the intersection, including the crash which resulted in two fatalities in June,” she said.
Member for Kiama Katelin McInerney said the intersection had been a significant concern for residents. “Removing right turns here takes away the risk of vehicles stopped in a highway lane, which is exactly the kind of practical fix that saves lives,” she said.
South Coast MP Liza Butler said the local community had been deeply affected by crashes at the site and had been calling for action to improve safety.
Transport for NSW said it would keep motorists and residents informed ahead of the changes coming into effect in the coming weeks
