Shared zone boosts safety in Campbell St

Published on 12 December 2019

Motorists, pedestrians and cyclists are advised that new traffic and parking arrangements outside the Royal Hobart Hospital come into effect this week.

A patient drop-off area and short-term parking for patient pick-up has been established on Campbell Street and is accessed via a slow-speed traffic lane that will be separated from higher speed through traffic.

Two lanes of through-traffic will be maintained.

The arrangement draws from the results of a road operation assessment of Campbell Street conducted over the past three years and responds to the needs of the Royal Hobart Hospital’s new inpatient precinct, known as K-Block.

Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said the changes would be implemented on a trial basis.

“Campbell Street provides access to and through the city and ensuring it meets traffic demands and is safe for all users is our priority,” Cr Reynolds said.

“With construction of the Royal Hobart Hospital’s new inpatient block and the University of Tasmania and Theatre Royal’s performing arts centre, there is an opportunity to provide a safer environment for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists using the area.

“The City will monitor the outcomes over the course of the next 12 months before determining whether it’s the best long-term solution.”

Developed by the City of Hobart, in conjunction with the State Government, the Royal Hobart Hospital and the University of Tasmania, the new traffic and parking arrangements will be implemented in Campbell Street between Liverpool and Collins streets from tomorrow (Friday 13 December).

“Importantly, the dedicated drop-off and pick-up area and the slower-speed shared lane will accommodate the needs of hospital patrons, service vehicles and cyclists without affecting the flow of traffic in Campbell Street,” Cr Reynolds said.

The new arrangements will be trialled for 12 months, after which time a report will be prepared with a view to considering permanent traffic arrangements.