Background Information

The Marlborough Street and Esplanade intersection in Henley Beach is located 100m west of the Star of the Sea School, which generates a high level of pedestrians and bicycle riders. Parents of school students often use the car parking spaces along the Esplanade and Marlborough Street to pick up and drop off their children. There have been concerns raised from members of the community that drivers travelling northbound along the Esplanade may not be aware that pedestrians and bicycle riders frequently cross the road at this location.

Through investigations, it has been identified that sight restrictions could be a potential safety risk. We are therefore proposing to realign the ramps at this intersection and install a ‘Zebra Crossing’ to ensure a safe crossing point for children and other pedestrians.

A zebra crossing is a type of pedestrian crossing used in many places around the world. Its distinguishing feature is alternating dark and light stripes on the road surface, similar to the coat of a zebra. A zebra crossing gives priority to pedestrians and bicycle riders using the footpath over vehicles and cyclists on the road.

In order to realign the crossing point away from the blind spot, the existing path will be re-directed north, which will result in the loss of one parking space on the western side of Marlborough Street. A minor relocation of existing seating and bike rails will also be required. A new light would also be installed to illuminate the Zebra Crossing at night.

Consultation Outcomes

We undertook consultation from 11 September to 2 October 2019 with packages sent directly to 78 resident and ratepayers in the project area inviting completion of a survey to determine level of support for the zebra crossing.

This survey was available to be completed online through our YourSay Charles Sturt website.A corflute sign was also installed onsite to promote and seek comments from other users.

During the consultation period we received 59 responses to the project proposal and following analysis of the survey responses.

You can read more in the Community Engagement Report

Following positive comments from the community, we intend on proceeding with the installation of the zebra crossing. An amended concept plan is enclosed which reflects resident comments and provides 4 new additional car parking spaces in Marlborough Street. New white linemarking will be installed to delineate the traffic entering and exiting Marlborough Street, along with yellow linemarking to restrict cars parking in front of private driveways.

We are now finalising the detailed design of this intersection and anticipate the crossing to be constructed before the end of June 2020.