I am writing to bring urgent attention to the severe road safety hazards in the rapidly developing Tamworth/Moore Creek region, specifically in areas with new housing subdivisions, expanding school populations, and an increasingly dangerous infrastructure that fails to provide basic safety features for pedestrians, especially children and vulnerable individuals.
The ongoing housing developments and the construction of new schools have led to an influx of students, many of whom are left with no safe walking route to their educational institutions. There are currently no footpaths along Moore Creek Road, which is a major thoroughfare for both local and regional traffic.
This is particularly concerning as it forces children to walk along the side of the road, often in tall, unkempt grass that reaches knee height, exposing them to not only road traffic but also a serious risk of encountering brown snakes, which are endemic to the area and pose a significant threat.
In addition to these dangers, Moore Creek Road is a busy route for large vehicles, trade utes, and heavy trucks, increasing the risk of a serious accident. Children and families, including those with disabilities, are expected to navigate this hazardous environment daily, with no pedestrian crossings or other safety measures to assist them in crossing the road to access local schools.
This situation is untenable and completely unsafe for residents of all ages, particularly for those with mobility challenges or young children who cannot be expected to navigate such risks.
Contact has been made with Tamworth Regional Council regarding these concerns, yet there has been no real timeline provided for resolution, and the response has shown little urgency or understanding of the severity of the situation. This lack of action is deeply concerning and leaves residents feeling ignored and unprotected.
The current conditions are not just an inconvenience—they are a ticking time bomb waiting to result in a serious injury or fatality. This issue is compounded by the presence of vulnerable individuals, including schoolchildren, elderly people, and those with disabilities, who are forced to take risks simply to walk along their own streets.
This submission serves as a call to action for immediate intervention by Tamworth Regional Council and relevant authorities to ensure that:
Pedestrian pathways and footpaths are constructed along Moore Creek Road, particularly in areas with high student populations.
Safe, marked pedestrian crossings are installed at key points, including near school zones.
Immediate weed and grass clearing is implemented along roadsides to reduce the risk of snake encounters and other dangers.
A comprehensive traffic safety plan is developed for the area, accounting for the growing population, school traffic, and the increasing number of heavy vehicles on the road.
The inclusion of photos alongside this submission will hopefully provide a visual representation of the current dangers and the immediate need for change.
We strongly urge the local council to take swift and decisive action before this situation results in tragedy.
The safety of our children, families, and community members should not be negotiable. We look forward to your prompt response and immediate plans for remediation.
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