Merimbula CBD upgrade package defeated, leaving traffic and Beach Street changes unapproved

Bega Valley Shire Council has defeated a proposed alteration to the Merimbula CBD upgrade, rejecting a package that included new traffic arrangements, Beach Street works and landscaping changes at Hylands Corner.

The motion would have abandoned the exhibited traffic trial and detailed design before introducing a revised configuration. It proposed mini roundabouts at Sapphire Coast Drive and Main Street, and at Main Street and Market Street, with lighting at both intersections.

It also retained two-way traffic along the full length of Market Street, kept left and right turns for northbound traffic at the Market Street traffic lights and formalised a pedestrian crossing between Merimbula Drive and Main Street, including lighting. Traffic monitoring was proposed to test the revised arrangement.

The motion acknowledged that the revised configuration would not test the Merimbula Transport Study recommendations adopted by Council or its 15 November 2023 resolution. It also said modelling showed increased traffic issues in the CBD in the future.

At Hylands Corner, the proposed capital works schedule was limited to minor aesthetic works, seating, planting and soft landscaping, a structural base for the Christmas Tree and pedestrian-safety improvements for the laneway. The motion also included a revised Beach Street configuration.

The motion was moved by Cr Mitchell Nadin and Cr David Porter. Mark Bates, representing the Merimbula Chamber of Commerce, addressed councillors in support.

Cr Helen O’Neil declared a non-pecuniary and less than significant pecuniary interest because she is a director of the company operating the Twyford Theatre complex at the intersection of Beach and Market streets. She said the theatre could be affected by changes to CBD traffic, but had no financial interest. She remained in the chamber and voted.

The proposed traffic, parking, pedestrian and public-space package was not approved at the meeting. The revised traffic configuration, Beach Street works and Hylands Corner landscaping changes will not proceed under that resolution.