A community group is calling for a broader rethink of traffic and parking after new restrictions on a narrow hinterland road left some residents confused and others welcoming the change.
Sunshine Coast Council installed no-standing restrictions and line marking on Crescent Road at Eumundi on September 22, affecting parking used during the town’s busy market days.
A council spokesperson said overflow parking had been creating a safety risk because the road’s horizontal and vertical alignment limited sight distance and parked vehicles were further reducing visibility.
The Eumundi Residents Association said it had been told residents were not consulted before the changes and some were confused by the placement and direction of the signs.
Council confirmed a formal consultation process was not undertaken because the restrictions were introduced to address identified road safety concerns.
Association president Dr Suzanne Campin said residents had previously raised concerns about motorists using Crescent Road as a “rat run” to avoid congestion in Eumundi.
She said residents had reported vehicles travelling at speed along the narrow road and incidents in which side mirrors appeared to have been struck as cars passed closely.
Dr Campin added the new restrictions had prompted mixed responses, with some residents believing they had made the road safer while others were confused about where parking was allowed on market and non-market days.
The association also raised concerns about arrows on some no-standing signs, which it said appeared to point in the wrong direction.
It reported a market visitor had returned to a vehicle parked in an area where he usually parked to be told he had been booked after the new line marking was introduced.
Sunshine Coast Council told SCN no parking infringements had been issued for vehicles parked contrary to the new no-standing restrictions.
Queensland government parking guidance states motorists generally must leave at least 3m between their vehicle and a continuous dividing line, or at least 3m of roadway clear for other vehicles where there is no continuous dividing line.
Council said the restrictions were intended to maintain clearer sightlines and reduce the likelihood of vehicle conflicts.
“Council regularly assesses traffic and parking conditions across our region and implements measures where necessary to support the safe and efficient operation of the road network,” the spokesperson said.
Dr Campin said the Crescent Road issue was part of broader concerns about how traffic and parking were managed in Eumundi, particularly during market days.
The association has also pointed to the loss of parking spaces on Memorial Drive during previous placemaking works, although it said some residents believed Eumundi’s parking problems extended well beyond those changes.
It is seeking consultation with the council and wants traffic and parking considered as part of a proposed long-term plan for the town.
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Dr Campin said the association had discussed its intention to lead a community planning process with Sunshine Coast mayor Rosanna Natoli.
“Eumundi needs a Ten Year Plan, one that supports the community, supports our heritage, supports our local economy including the markets and provides for pedestrian and driver safety through effective parking and management,” Dr Campin said.
“The Eumundi Residents Association will hold a public meeting shortly to discuss the idea of a Ten Year Plan including long-term traffic planning and management for the markets and residents.”
