The state of Newcastle’s roads has consistently sparked debate, as various obstacles disrupt the everyday travels of drivers. A significant issue among these is the fading of road markings, which have gradually become less visible over time.
Recognising the paramount importance of road safety, particularly in light of increasing collisions within the town, the Newcastle Municipality stated that it has taken steps to address these concerns by launching a Road Marking initiative.
According to Newcastle’s Communications Unit, the primary objectives of this initiative are to bolster the overall road infrastructure, enhance pedestrian safety, and optimise traffic flow.
“Clear signage is essential for maintaining efficient vehicular flow and reducing the likelihood of accidents as urbanisation and traffic density rise,” remarked the Communications Unit.
Furthermore, the Municipality is prioritising the safety and convenience of its citizens and visitors by undertaking the task of repainting and reinforcing these crucial markings. The road marking programme encompasses various elements, including the repainting of stop lines, directional arrows, crosswalks, and lane separators.
“In order to maximize safety precautions, additional focus is being placed on busy junctions, school zones, and high-traffic locations. To further increase safety requirements, reflective paint and materials are being used to boost visibility during nighttime driving,” added the Communications Unit.
Moreover, the Communications Unit emphasised that beyond the immediate safety benefits, well-maintained road markings contribute to the visual appeal of the city and foster a sense of orderliness among commuters.
“The visual clarity offered by freshly painted markings enhances the overall urban landscape, instilling a sense of pride and civic responsibility among residents. This proactive approach to road maintenance reflects the Newcastle Municipality’s commitment to ensuring the welfare and safety of its citizens,” explained the Communications Unit.
As the Municipality takes proactive measures to address road markings in Newcastle, what are your thoughts on the initiative? Share your views in the comment section below.
I hope this isn’t just electioneering & it’s part of a long term urban renewal campaign
There is nothing proactive about maintaining roads as you should. We can’t praise fish for swimming it’s ridiculous
Totally agree with @ Sizwe. We pay rates so that we can have maintained,clean streets and street lights. This municipality has failed this town for so long that when they promise to actually do their job, they want us to applaud their efforts. No. We pay you for this.
Don’t think it is a big achievement,in any way no law enforcement around at stop streets with sufficient marking and road signs especially upper Victoria or any stop sign for that matter as all is bluntly ignored by newcastle residents,in Eaton road where it is essential to have speed hump as most of the times it can qualify as newcastle’s official racetrack.
Are we supposed to applaud them for taking on a project when it should have been maintenance the past 10 years? Are the potholes in all residential streets going to be repaired? This is not an achievement but an embarrassment on this town.
Fix the potholes first and then paint the roads.
They’re painting the roads but sadly forgetting to fix the potholes which is in essence an even bigger concern for motorists, we as motorists have to go into oncoming lanes because of the potholes. Now how big an issue is that? Russian roulette anyone? No, ok fine. What about hit or miss? Well!! The potholes can not possibly be a reason for the accidents?! Our cars will happily hop and skip over the potholes. In the process creating accidents damage and more. Shorten lives. Or worse steal lives from loved ones before it’s time. But continue painting the roads. Really?
Anyone worth their salt would know fixing the roads should be first priority and then painting the roads. But uhmm. Not this municipality. So in the end it will cost more. Not amused. Not impressed. Some of the roads are really in very poor condition. Shame on this municipality. The condition of the roads should take priority. Not just painting roads. The roads are in a deplorable condition. Not just the markings.
The mayor and his colleagues should go and take photos on the road marking,that is all the good for.
It is very crazy to waste paint on useless roads.
Another election ploy in play. Why now and not in the past five years.