Crusoe Road speed limit petition unsuccessful

The decision by City of Greater Bendigo councillors comes in response to a petition that the speed limit be reduced to 50 kilometres an hour.

The 73 signatories also called for a pedestrian crossing to be installed near 102 Crusoe Road, "for the safety of children and the elderly".

City staff recommended the 60kph speed limit remain unchanged, after professional assessments deemed it appropriate.

It was also suggested the project be eligible for consideration in future budgets, and that the city speak with Victoria Police about enforcing the speed limit.

Councillors decided at tonight's meeting to back the city's recommendations.

Cr Jennifer Alden said there was a disparity between professional assessments and community perceptions about the need for change.

She said she understood the residents' concerns. However, Cr Alden supported the city's recommendation to retain the existing speed limit.

Cr George Flack backed the professional assessments.

"Leave it as it is," he said.

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Residents had called for an increased police presence on Crusoe Road to help drive down risky driver behaviour.

Cr Alden said police were willing to increase patrols.

She said a proposed pedestrian crossing would be a matter for Regional Roads Victoria.

Cr Alden feared there would be a long wait in store, given there were delays of up to eight years for footpaths.

She was hopeful the infrastructure would became a priority as soon as possible.

Meanwhile, Cr Malcolm Pethybridge urged those engaging in risky behaviours behind the wheel to drive responsibly.

"You've got no reason to do that in Bendigo at all," he said.

Cr Pethybridge said Bendigo had a car club in Bagshot and a drag strip in Heathcote.

"Just use the proper places to do this and just use the roads responsibly," he said.

He also reminded motorists that just because the speed limit on Crusoe Road was 60kph, didn't mean they had to be driving at 60kph.