It is becoming apparent that the Kendal Street detour will continue to cause division in Cowra unless council shows some leadership and backbone. Traffic flow experts determined that Vaux Street was the best option, but now Council is in a dither over opposition from Vaux Street residents and Cowra Public School P&C.
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Does Council think that if they change the proposed diversion to Brougham Street, there won't be just as strong opposition from Brougham Street residents?
The main issue is unquestionably that of child safety.
In the case of Vaux Street there is the problem of the Public School, while with Brougham Street it is the Aquatic Centre, playing fields and park.
Regarding the Public School, danger is at its greatest during arrival and departure times (8.30am-9.30am and 2.30pm-4.00pm), a total of 15 hours per week.
Fortunately the school has adequate manpower (teachers and parents) to supervise the children during this time.
With the Aquatic Centre the most dangerous times are after school hours and at weekends, a total of some 40 hours per week.
School speed zones are already established and observed.
Unfortunately, unlike the school, there is no way to adequately supervise the arrival and departure of children to and from the pool, playing fields and park.
An added complication is that vehicles need to make a sharp turn immediately outside the Aquatic Centre.
This could have the effect of monopolising drivers' attention to the detriment of pedestrian safety.
After careful deliberation of all the issues, the preferred option of Council and RMS was to use Vaux Street.
In my opinion it would be a mistake to change this due to pressure from a well organised lobby group.
Bill Baker
Brougham Street, COWRA
