Orange residents will have a say on whether the CBD speed limit is cut from 50km/h to 40km/h.
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Orange City Council has agreed to put the plan on public exhibition for 28 days to gain feedback on the pedestrian-friendly move.
Council will also seek comments from the Orange Business Chamber about the reduction following a recommendation for its introduction in the FutureCity plans for the CBD.
It is proposed the entire area bounded by Peisley, Hill, Kite and Byng streets would see the 40km/h limit introduced.
I've seen a lot of stupid things happening in the main street.
- Cr Scott Munro
Council was told there had been eight crashes involving injuries in the CBD and cutting the speed limit would significantly reduce the risk of pedestrian deaths.
Councillors were divided on the plan at Tuesday night's meeting.
Cr Kevin Duffy said he was opposed to the plan as it would drive business away from the CBD. "There is no way in the world I am ever going to support 40km/h zones and reduction of traffic flows," he said.
Cr Tony Mileto said the police should be consulted to find out what had caused the accidents.
"It is easy to blame the motorists without looking at the facts," he said.
Cr Scott Munro called for speed cameras to be introduced on Summer Street to curb dangerous drivers.
"I've seen a lot of stupid things happening in the main street," he said.
He said the 40km/h limit should be restricted to Summer Street.
Cr Joanne McRae said cutting the speed limit would improve pedestrian safety, reduce through traffic from the CBD, make it easier to cross busy roads and encourage people to shop in the city.
She said 40km/h zones worked around schools. "Both Kite Street and Byng Street also include school zones which currently have 40km/h areas anyway. This is not going to be a huge issue for those drivers heading through town, they can use an alternate route," she said.
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Cr Russell Turner and Cr Stephen Nugent said council should wait to assess public and business comment before making a decision.
Cr Glenn Taylor said he was opposed to installing speed cameras and it could be seen as a revenue-raising move.
Council will assess feedback on the issue before asking Transport for NSW/Roads and Maritime Services to review the need for change.
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David Fitzsimons
I am a senior journalist at the Central Western Daily concentrating on council, government and real estate issues. Before moving to Orange I filled senior roles at the Daily Telegraph, Daily Telegraph-Mirror and the Daily Mirror in Sydney. They included being an editor, news editor, chief of staff and reporter.
I am a senior journalist at the Central Western Daily concentrating on council, government and real estate issues. Before moving to Orange I filled senior roles at the Daily Telegraph, Daily Telegraph-Mirror and the Daily Mirror in Sydney. They included being an editor, news editor, chief of staff and reporter.
