Falcon Coco C’Bay residents ‘devastated’ over City of Mandurah's hoon measures

The City agreed to the installation of a plateau and 50km/h signs in June 27 and sent a letter informing Coco C’Bay residents about the decision in early July.

However, the residents said they were devastated to find out that instead of following through with the meeting resolution, the City had painted a red median line along the road. 

“We’re devastated by it, we’ve got  no confidence in the [City of Mandurah] at all now, when people can get killed along this road,” resident Ralph Taylor said.

The residents said the situation had shown no signs of improvement since the red lines were painted earlier this week, with drivers continuing to speed down the street. 

Visually impaired resident Ria Panhuysen said she felt unsafe around the area, needing the assistance of her neighbours on a regular basis to attend her aerobic classes on the other side of the road. 

“I’m very careful there’s no cars coming from the bed at all but by the time I am nearly at the other side [the cars] are right at me and they don’t take notice of my white stick,” she said.

“I’m an independent woman, I should be able to do this by myself.”

Member for Dawesville Zak Kirkup said he was disappointed about the City’s “backflip” and called on the City of Mandurah to deliver what they promised. 

“This is not consistent with the council’s position and what the residents were told,” he said.

“The residents can rightfully feel let down. 

“I hope the City of Mandurah reconsider their position.”

City of Mandurah chief Mark Newman said the City had installed the central median island markings to highlight the central part of the road and a painted plateau to give the perception of a hump. 

“Observations have shown that vehicles travel outside their lane upon entering the median island adjacent to the community centre,” Mr Newman said.

“It’s hoped that these new clear markings will help to combat this behaviour by making drivers more aware of the road configuration and keep vehicles in their own lane space.

“While there may have been an expectation that a raised plateau was to be constructed, this would need the approval of residents living either side of the plateau as there would be noise issues related to its installation.”

Mr Newman said the City was currently seeking the approval from Main Roads WA to install 50km/h signs in the area. 

He said the new measures would be monitored for six months.